Northern Ireland's Shared Schools Spark Debate Over Israeli Military Links
A collaboration between Northern Ireland's shared education programmes and an Israeli educational organisation has raised questions about its military ties. The Center for Educational Technology (CET) in Tel Aviv first engaged with Queen's University Belfast after learning of its work in bridging Catholic and Protestant schools. However, little is known about the partnership's progress since then. The connection began when CET, led by former military intelligence officer Yossi Baidatz, took interest in Northern Ireland's shared education model. Baidatz, who has advised the Israeli military on strategy and violence, helped arrange for Jerusalem school principals to visit Derry. The trip was coordinated by Tony Gallagher, a professor at Queen's University Belfast, who has long promoted integrated schooling in the region.
The visit included discussions on conflict resolution, drawing parallels between Derry's history and Jerusalem's divisions. CET's involvement extended beyond education, as another senior figure, Shaul Gilad, previously served on the board of Aeronautics, an Israeli arms manufacturer. The timing of the collaboration coincided with heightened scrutiny of Israel's military actions. In 2014, a major offensive in Gaza resulted in the deaths of over 530 children. Meanwhile, popular culture in Northern Ireland, such as the TV series *Derry Girls*, reflected public fatigue with the relentless focus on peace. One character, Michelle, voiced frustration with the constant emphasis on reconciliation.
No further details about the CET's work with Israeli security institutions have been made public since its initial contact with Gallagher. The partnership's military connections and the broader context of conflict in the region remain points of interest. The trip to Derry stands as the only documented outcome of the collaboration so far.
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