Attempt to use student funds for political campaign sparks criticism

Channel 14 News reported on Thursday about a storm within the student union following allegations of an attempt to fund a large-scale election campaign using student money. Union Chairperson Sivan Koren proposed a program including conferences and digital media activities, which opponents argue violates the union's bylaws by using public funds for political purposes.

A proposal for 2.4 million shekels was brought to a vote but failed to pass due to opposition from student unions. Program documents stated that starting October 11, "student unions on campuses will serve as the field arm of the national election campaign." Critics argue that the campaign's focus on the country's future over the last three years is distinctly political.

Furthermore, Koren previously participated in the "Carrot and Stick" draft law campaign alongside the Yisrael Beiteinu party. During that campaign, party chairman Avigdor Lieberman promoted the "No draft, no vote" slogan and declared his intention to push for related legislation. A source within one of the student unions criticized the move:

"We do not accept that millions will go to a political campaign that the students have not signed off on. We are afraid that the money will go to bad political things."

The source added that Koren's past association with Yisrael Beiteinu campaigns raises concerns regarding a conflict of interest.

The student union responded that "the future of the young generation is not a partisan issue but a national interest of the highest order." A new proposal, valued at hundreds of thousands of shekels, is expected to be put to a vote on Sunday, and reports indicate that student unions intend to oppose it as well.