Well-known Jewish businessman, philanthropist, and FJC President Lev Leviev visited Novosibirsk, where he took part in a celebration for the tenth anniversary of the local Ohr Avner Chabad Day School.
Mr. Leviev can rightly be called one of the founding fathers of Jewish education in the CIS. Thanks to the Ohr Avner Foundation, Jewish day schools are operating and the network is rapidly growing in Russia, Ukraine and other CIS countries today. The younger generation of Jews are learning the basics of Judaism and Jewish traditions. In addition, the numerous diplomas, prizes and awards received by Ohr Avner students from state and municipal educational authorities point to the high level of education at these Jewish schools.
Mr. Leviev, who was accompanied by Chief Rabbi of Novosibirsk Zalman Zaklas and Jewish community leaders, met with Vladimir Nikonov, the Deputy Head of the Novosibirsk Regional Administration and Minister of Education and Science. The discussion focused on issues related to the Jewish school’s development, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary.
After this meeting, Mr. Leviev visited the newly-built mikvah, which was constructed with the financial support of the Bistritsky family and the European Rabbinical Center. At noon, the FJC President spoke with local Jewish businessmen, with whom he discussed the issue of financing the construction of the synagogue and the Jewish Community Center.
The main reason for Mr. Leviev’s visit to Novosibirsk, however, was to join the community in celebrating a decade of successful operation on the part of the Ohr Avner Chabad Day School. In the city’s concert hall, the celebration, prepared by teachers and pupils of Jewish school, finally took place. The first person to congratulate the teachers and schoolchildren was Rabbi Zaklas, followed by Mr. Leviev. In his speech, he noted that a good education and a commitment to Jewish traditions and values are the key to success in the life of every Jew.
Then the Ohr Avner schoolchildren presented their musical and artistic talents to the audience. Met with enthusiastic applause, more than 1,000 attendees thanked the students for the excellent presentation, prepared under the guidance of Rebbetzin Miriam Zaklas.