In a bid to tackle pressing agricultural, nutritional and environmental challenges, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Clemson University in South Carolina and Sapir College in Israel.
The partnership focuses on joint research initiatives relevant to both Israel—particularly, the Western Negev region—and South Carolina. It includes efforts to secure funding through collaborative grant proposals, as well as the development of an international strategic framework to enhance research and teaching capabilities. An additional goal is to assist developing countries facing similar agricultural challenges by sharing expertise and best practices.
“This collaboration signifies a pivotal advancement in agricultural research and education,” said professor Saul Burdman, dean of the Hebrew University Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “By combining Israeli expertise with Clemson University’s innovative approaches, we are poised to make significant strides in promoting global food security and sustainability.”
The collaboration supports the expansion and advancement of Sapir College’s agricultural technology programs, further strengthening its role in regional development. Student exchange programs will also be established, providing opportunities for cross-cultural learning and academic enrichment.
The signing ceremony, held at Clemson University on March 11, was attended by Nikki Haley, former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, a distinguished alumna of the school.
The partnership is the result of a visit by Haley to Sderot in May 2024. There, she met Amit Kochavi, senior adviser to Sderot Mayor Alon Davidi, who was seeking to revitalize agricultural communities near Sderot and Sapir College after the Hamas-led massacre on Oct. 7, 2023, devastated the area.
“This partnership unites two countries, two cultures, and three universities,” said Haley, a Clemson Board of Trustees member and former South Carolina governor. “Today, we celebrate two agriculture giants, two leaders in innovative farming coming together. Through this partnership, we are sowing seeds that will sprout and bear fruit for generations to come.”
Global agriculture expert and director of the Clemson Global Research Initiative, Dr. Jagger Harvey, is leading Clemson’s involvement. “Hebrew University scientists are world-class in agricultural research, and Sapir College supports agriculture in the Western Negev region,” Harvey said. “This partnership will further strengthen Clemson’s ability to address key agricultural and food insecurity challenges in Israel, South Carolina and globally.”