Equity, Diversity, and Social Justice (EDS) LAB
The Equity, Diversity, and Social Justice Lab was established by Prof. BenDavid-Hadar in 2009 at the Faculty of Education, Bar Ilan University. Its mission and main objectives are to advance research and promote understanding in the critical areas of educational equity, diversity, and social justice. The lab focuses on examining systemic inequities in education finance (inputs) and educational outcomes (outputs), developing innovative policy solutions to address disparities, and fostering improvement in education alongside promoting social justice.
Through rigorous academic studies, collaborative projects, and community engagement, the lab aims to identify barriers to equitable education and propose evidence-based strategies for improvement. Additionally, the EDS lab’s Forum titled “Economic aspects of Education Policy” serves as a hub for scholars, educators, and policymakers to exchange ideas and work towards creating a more just and thriving society that benefits all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Significant research areas
Education Finance and Policy, Economics and Education, Equity, and Equality in Resource Allocation to Education, Redistribution Mechanisms, Funding Formulae, Equity in Educational Outcomes, and Educational Improvement Models. Prof. Iris BenDavid-Hadar
Developing Longitudinal Non-Linear Multivariate Educational Improvement Models
- Member of Israeli Forum for Promoting Equality of Education Opportunities (EEO)
- Presenting at the Israeli Parliament at the Education Committee
- Ministry of Education
Ministry of Labor
- Member of the BOT at the National Education Finance Academy, US.
- Founder and Chair of the Economics and Finance of Education SIG at the Comparative International Education Society (CIES)
- UNESCO
- Education Commission
National level
We are engaged in developing indicators and measuring equity in educational outcomes to enhance the World Bank’s EGini index. Our work includes creating a comprehensive resource allocation method for the Israeli education system, involving a new funding formula and allocation mechanism to ensure equitable distribution of resources. Additionally, we are developing a tailored allocation method for the Israeli Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector, focusing on reconceptualizing financial policies to support and promote the sector’s growth and effectiveness. These initiatives aim to improve educational equity and optimize resource use, fostering a more robust and equitable education system.
The LAB is at the forefront of developing innovative financial mechanisms to support the education of children in humanitarian crises, contributing to the Education Commission’s Learning Generation Report under the leadership of Mr. Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. We provide expert advice for UNESCO’s Equity in Education Finance Report, ensuring equitable access to educational resources globally. Additionally, we offer strategic guidance for the World Bank’s Equity Report, focusing on education finance in Sub-Saharan African countries. Our involvement in these highimpact initiatives underscores our commitment to advancing educational equity and addressing critical challenges in humanitarian contexts.
Equity in Education Finance Policy & Resource Allocation (ISF Funded Project) Post Doc Fellowship: Dr. Karen Sauer, Doctoral Students: Mr. Sammy Attar, Ms. Ruth Meoded, Ms. Yafit Gorman, Ms. Elinor Ben-Levy
Equity in Education Outcomes Dr. Zehorit Dadon-Golan, (National Insurance Funded Project), Ms. Sigal Duany, and Doctoral Student Ms. Michal Tzadoky
Equity in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Policy Dr. Yaara Shilo, Ms. Hilla Nagar
Rural (periphery) Dr. Amor Amosi-Nissan
Inclusion Policy (ultra-Orthodox) Doctoral Student: Ms. Yael Leby
Inclusion Policy (Students with SEN) Ms. Lidor Edry, Doctoral Student: Ms. Revital Bar
Equity in Language Policy (Arabic Speaking Students) Doctoral Students: Ms. Fatina Sarsor, Ms. Sharon Malki-Levy
Financial Education for Reducing the Gaps Mr. Yaniv Haddad, Ms. Hilla Nagar, Ms. Or May Yazdy
Last Updated Date : 27/11/2025
