On October 28, the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Haifa hosted a moving memorial conference honouring the lives and legacies of two of its graduates, Evyatar Kipnis and Ohad Yahalomi, of blessed memory, who lost their lives following the tragic events of October 7, 2023.

The conference was organised by Prof., Ofira Ayalon, Head of the Natural Resources and Environmental Research Center (NRERC) and Prof. Noga Collins-Kreiner, PhD, head of the Center for Mediterranean Trails.

As part of the event, scholarships recognising academic excellence were awarded to outstanding students by the Center for Mediterranean Trails and the Natural Resources and Environmental Research Center. The programme also featured thought-provoking lectures exploring the connections between nature, the environment, and hope.

The gathering brought together remembrance and sorrow with a commitment to the future, reflecting a shared belief in the power of knowledge, meaningful action, and our connection to nature to inspire hope and positive change.

As a lasting tribute, two memorial benches were installed beneath the magnificent olive tree at the entrance to the Rabin Building, commemorating the lives and legacies of Evyatar and Ohad.

Through remembrance, education, and a shared commitment to a better future, their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

University of Haifa, Faculty of Social Sciences – University of Haifa, Ofira Ayalon, Noga Collins-Kreiner, PhD, NRERC