Akademik

(Israeli Youth Corps)

   Gadna began operating some 10 years before the establishment of the state. Over the years, it has had a variety of names and tasks, but its primary purpose has remained to educate Israel's youth on good citizenship, loyalty, and preparation for national service; to make the youth aware of national security problems; and to develop the physical fitness of youth. During the riots in Palestine in the 1936-39 period, the leaders of the Yishuv reached the conclusion that all able-bodied individuals were essential, and the mobilization of young boys was begun. A number of groups were established. In the summer of 1948, the chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces signed the order for the establishment of Gadna. The intent was not to send these youngsters into combat, but occasionally this was done during the War of Independence. The basic purpose is to train and prepare Israeli youth between the ages of 14 and 18 for national duty. In 2007, approximately 16,000 to 19,000 of the 73,000 pupils — male and female—enrolled in the 11th grade in state and religious schools were participants in the weeklong Gadna training. In the Education Ministry, there were plans to significantly expand the level of participation. The Gadna program continues to be seen as a means by which to educate Israel's youth to civil and social commitment to the state, which includes service in the military forces or alternative national service.