LEAD

The benefits of excellence for people, societies and economies are enormous. However excellence cannot be mandated by law, since it is an individual’s choice that requires commitment, effort, and perseverance. As a result, governments and legislators debate whether to declare excellence as a basic right, or to offer incentives and rely mostly on private initiatives. There are countries that promote excellence as a matter of policy and many others that do not designate it a priority nor allocate it resources.

Israeli society and economy in the digital age are becoming more fragmented than ever before. Its education system therefore reflects a dual quest for both excellence and equity. In this final session we will discuss the implications of this mission for policy.