Ono Scholar Critiques Government’s Free Pre-School Program. Where’s the Money?

In an interview Israel Army Radio’s (Galei Tzahal) “The Method” program, Ono Academic College Professor Yaron Zelekha discussed the government’s plan to offer free pre-schooling for Israel’s youth. 

Prof. Zelekha is President of Ono Academic College’s Higher Academic Council and Director of Accountancy Studies.  From 2003 – 2007, Prof. Zelekha completed a full term as the Accountant General of the State of Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotritch presented the first phase of the program for free education from age of 0 to 3, which includes a grant of up to NIS 940 per month

In response, Prof. Zelekha noted that the government’s deficit is expanding and this program represents a distribution of money to the public that Israeli society doesn’t have. He believes while free pre-school may be a public good, it will have to be paid for by someone, and that “someone” is us. 

To listen to the whole interview, click here:  https://www.ifatmediasite.com/ms/radio/2023/05/01/12125485.mp3

Professor Yaron Zelekha