October 27, 2025 – The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU) illuminated the iconic Chords Bridge (Gesher HaMeitarim) at the entrance to the city with the University’s emblem, in commemoration of its 100th anniversary and to mark the start of the new academic year on October 19, 2025. 

Approximately 23,000 students began their studies this year at Israel’s leading academic institution, founded by some of the greatest minds of the 20th century, including Albert Einstein, Martin Buber, and Sigmund Freud.

Since its founding, HU has set the standard for excellence in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and exact sciences. Its graduates include many of Israel’s leading doctors, lawyers, economists, and mathematicians. The University’s research touches every aspect of modern life, from space exploration and deep-sea discovery to the invention of cherry tomatoes and breakthroughs in cultured meat. Hebrew University scholars are global leaders in brain research, forensic science, psychology, and the health professions. In recent years, the Rachel and Selim Benin School of Engineering and Computer Science has produced more graduates than any other research university in Israel, many of whom have gone on to shape the country’s high-tech industry and contribute to innovation worldwide. 

These graduates join the hundreds of thousands of Hebrew University alumni who, over the past century since its establishment in 1925, have helped shape and lead Israel’s public institutions, healthcare system, legal world, economy, civil society, cultural life, and academic community, both in Israel and abroad. This year, the University maintained its position among the world’s leading institutions, ranking 88th in the prestigious Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities. 

Even on this joyous occasion, the Hebrew University community remembers and continues to hope for the return of the hostages still held, so that they may be laid to rest in Israel. 

Link to video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hvwAGTvzm4I16bZMXYbv9BL5Gktn8DNR/view?usp=drive_link | Credit: Bull Production House