By Nativia Bühler

For generations, scientists have looked to the universe with awe, uncovering the laws of physics. For many physicists, the deeper they explore creation, the more they marvel at its beauty. From the invisible waves of light that travel across the cosmos to the forces holding atoms together, physics reveals an extraordinary order.

As physicist Albert Einstein once reflected: “I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” It is precisely this curiosity that drives young minds to ask questions: Why does light bend? How do stars form? What unseen forces govern the world around us?

At a Druze high school in Hurfeish, that curiosity now has a new home.

The Druze are a small, tight-knit minority in Israel, numbering around 150,000 people. Known for their strong communal identity, commitment to education and contributions to Israeli society, the Druze have long prioritised academic achievement and leadership development. Schools in Druze villages like Hurfeish are vital in preparing the next generation to take on leadership roles both within the community and across Israel.

Thanks to the support of Christians around the world, students can now explore the wonders of the universe in a fully renovated physics laboratory equipped with modern learning tools and advanced educational technology. The lab features hands-on experimental equipment and smart interactive technology, enabling students to engage with physics concepts in dynamic and practical ways.

During a recent dedication ceremony, educators and local leaders gathered to express deep appreciation for the investment in their students’ future.

The head of the Hurfeish Regional Council, Anwar Amer, highlighted the significance of the ICEJ’s support.

“Thank you for your support. You are a strong organisation supporting many communities. Education is our top priority; it equips young people with the skills to become future leaders and inspires them to strive for excellence.”

“Education is about initiative, discipline, courage, passion and hard work”, Amir emphasised. “These are the qualities that produce real results. Our goal is for this school to become one of the best in Israel and we are deeply grateful to the ICEJ for investing in our students’ future.”

In a light-hearted moment, he jokingly asked ICEJ Vice President for AID and Aliyah, Nicole Yoder, “You help us so much; do you want to become Druze?” He added that the support from Christian donors “warms our hearts.”

The school’s principal also expressed gratitude:

“It was unexpected to find wonderful people from far beyond the borders of our state who want to stand with us and support us. Thank you for being partners along the way!”

Nicole Yoder then shared with the students and faculty.

“It is wonderful to be part of new educational projects in the Druze community”, she said. “We were able to provide this new physics laboratory because of our Christian friends around the world who want to support the people of Israel in practical ways. It is a pleasure to come alongside you and invest in your vision and hopes for education. It is wonderful to support young people as they learn, grow and advance.”

For the school’s physics teacher, the laboratory opens exciting possibilities. Students can now explore complex concepts — from optics and light waves to the laws governing the universe — through experiments and technology.

“We are trying to take the natural curiosity of our students and turn it toward investigating the universe,” he explained. “At the same time, we want to develop excellence, critical thinking and technological skills.”

“This project has already made a tremendous difference for our physics students”, he also noted. “They have spoken about how the new laboratory has deepened their love for the subject while positively impacting the entire school atmosphere and their academic results. This laboratory will serve students for years to come.”

For the ICEJ, projects like this reflect a commitment to strengthening all sectors of Israeli society. And as students in this Druze school study the mysteries of light, motion and the universe, they are reminded — just as the psalmist wrote — that “the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.”

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