BGU | PRESIDENT'S REPORT 2026

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BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV

DIRECTOR-GENERAL AND VICE PRESIDENT TAL BEN-HAIM

The past year at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev has continued to be shaped by national uncertainty, security challenges, and economic constraints. Despite this, the University demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to its mission. Through the collective efforts of faculty, staff, students, and partners, the University not only maintained stablility, but achieved meaningful progress across all core areas of activity. The University’s overarching mission remains unchanged: to be among the world’s leading universities while serving as a driving force for social, scientific, and economic development in the Negev. The year marked a significant turning point, with measurable improvements in student enrollment, research performance, and global reputation. The University’s rise in international rankings

reflects both academic excellence and the effectiveness of focused strategic management.

BGU IN THE SHANGHAI ACADEMIC RANKING OF WORLD UNIVERSITIES, 2020-2025

301-400 301-400

401-500 401-500 401-500

501-600

2020 2021

2022

2023

2024 2025

Alongside our achievements, the University confronted significant challenges. Government budget constraints, the direct effects of war on campus operations, and the reserve duty service of a substantial portion of students required rapid adaptation and sustained crisis management. At the same time, the accelerating impact of artificial intelligence on higher education demanded continuous revision and updating of academic models, teaching methods, and institutional infrastructure. We continued developing a comprehensive framework for strengthening the University’s financial resilience,

BGU Radio takes part in the Open Day for prospective students. Feb. 2026