Kathryn Condon and Eilish Sibalis both travelled to Israel last summer to take Transboundary Water Cooperation at the Hebrew University. Here is what they had to say:
What drew you to study abroad at the Hebrew University?
Kathryn: As a Munk One pupil, I was exposed to opportunities for studying abroad during the summer. I was keen on applying the skills that Professor Kramarz and Professor Wong taught me in regards to tackling complex issues and the prospect of traveling to Israel to study historic transboundry issues from the perspective of recourse management appealed to me. I chose to embark on a two-week intensive course on Transboundary Water Cooperation offered by the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. I set out with both trepidation and excitement to study a natural resource dilemma which I am particularly interested in with intention of immersing myself in the culture of the Holy Land.
What was the course like?
Kathryn: The course was split into two modules each taught by a different Professor. Acclaimed researcher in the field Dr. Fisshendler focused on scholarly theory and research into water conflict between Palestine and Israel. This subject material was complemented by Dr. Lipchin of the Arava Institute who focused on practical approaches to resource management using Jordan-Israel negotiations as a Case Study. We benefitted from being exposed to the dilemma from multiple angles and perspectives.
Eilish: Over the two weeks, our professors taught us about topics like water rights, methods of water treatment and dispersal, and the relationships between Israel, Palestine, and Jordan through the lens of water cooperation. The small class size of 11 people allowed us to carry out in-depth discussions and participate in simulations. I feel lucky that we got to delve so deep into the intricacies of water issues and that we were presented with multiple sides of the story.
Were there any field trips?
Professor explaining the Dead Sea’s problems
Kathryn: The field trips were an integral part of the course, as they allowed my classmates and I to experience firsthand the implications of the policy decisions and new technology being implemented to curb the water shortage. We visited the Old City’s ancient water spring – a contested resource for centuries and trekked through underground tunnel aqueducts displaying the historical ingenuity surrounding water distribution.
Eilish: We also went on a field trip to the Dead Sea and Jordan River to see firsthand the issues being faced in the region. With water being a public good, how do you keep the balance between ecological preservation, peaceful relations with neighbours, and providing enough clean water to your growing population? While there is no single answer to this question, or there may not be an answer at all, the class was informed of the actions that have been taken so far.
Kathryn: When visiting the Dead Sea I witnessed the stark reality of a water body shrinking by 1 meter a year with grave socio-economic consequences. The mighty River Jordan has shockingly deteriorated into a sad stream of wastewater. During this field trip one of our classmates insisted on being Baptized in the Jordan River, with the help of Google our Professor performed this baptism- what a memorable field trip!
What did you do in your free time?
Eilish in Tel Aviv
Eilish: In the free time after class, we got to explore Jerusalem. Seeing ancient sights such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock, and the Western Wall brought a new level of meaning to being in Israel. Complemented by more modern attractions, such as the Israel Museum, the Mahane Yehuda market, and the city of Tel Aviv, I came to understand that Israel is a dynamic country that really has something for everyone. The local people were also very friendly and interested in meeting travellers. I learned just how great studying abroad is for making friends!
Kathryn: When not in class or reading for the next lecture I had plenty of time to venture out into the Old City visiting countless sites; Church of the Holy Seplecar, Temple Mount, Garden Tomb, Wailing Wall, Rampart’s Walk, Via de la Rosa, Davidson Center and Tower of David to name a few. I felt as though I had stepped back into ancient Biblical times, walking along the pebbled Souk soaking up the aroma of spices and incense – the call to prayer from the Minaret was magical.
My adventures were not confined to Jerusalem’s ancient walls, as they extended to Bethlehem, Ein Karem, City of David, and Mount of Olives. Despite not being a Hebrew speaker, I quickly learnt what “Shabbat” meant and that everything would close at sundown on Friday and reopen Saturday evening. The ambiance of Jerusalem, although there is undoubtedly an underlying tension in the air, was utterly charming – the music, the food (now addicted to falafel and hummus) and hospitality was memorable.
Looking back, what are your reflections on the experience?
Kitty at the Temple Mount
Eilish: The weeks I spent in Jerusalem were quite transformative. For me, travelling builds confidence, opens my eyes to new perspectives on life, and brings a sense of adventure to my life. Having the opportunity to combine that with study and learning about a topic in the heart of the affected area is very special. It is something I will bring with me throughout my time at U of T and into my life beyond.
Kathryn: Having completed the Program I have gained a better understanding of resource sharing and the ingenious technological advancements in manufacturing an otherwise un-substitutable necessity. I feel inspired to contribute towards preventing hydrological conflicts in water-scarce regions through promoting communication and negotiation among parties.
I have made wonderful memories which I cherish and am truly thankful that the Munk School encouraged me to study abroad this summer. I would without a doubt recommend participating in this Exchange to other prospective students so that they can share in this incredible experience.