Pri Etz Chaim Hebrew School, Bishkek

Founded in 1993, Pri Etz Chaim Hebrew School in Bishkek is a private institution that delivers a comprehensive general education alongside in-depth Jewish and technological instruction. The School joined the international ORT network in the 2005–2006 academic year and remains Kyrgyzstan’s primary center of Jewish education.

With 113 students, the School integrates the national curriculum with specialized programs in Jewish culture, language instruction, and STEAM. It is known for its strong academic performance, ranking first in the country in 2019 for academic outcomes and knowledge quality as assessed by the Kyrgyz national education center.

Name of School	Pri Etz Chaim Hebrew School
Location	Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Age range	Elementary, Junior High, High School
Students	113
Professionals	41

Curriculum & Academic Life

The School follows the national curriculum approved by the Ministry of Education of Kyrgyzstan and supplements it with specialized instruction in:

Jewish ethno-cultural subjects
Languages: English, Hebrew, Kyrgyz, Russian
STEAM disciplines

Unique courses offered include:

Computer animation
Digital photography and video
Robotics
Photoshop and video editing
Web and 3D design
Arduino programming
Vector graphics
Stage performance skills

Additional electives include:

Advanced mathematics
Applied physics and chemistry
Literary circle
Project design

Enrichment & Student Life

The School integrates creative, academic, and physical development through:

Fine arts
Jewish song and dance
Theater
Sports and physical education

A multimedia center, in operation for over 20 years, supports audio-visual production for performances and community events. Project-based and interdisciplinary learning approaches are central to school life.

Innovation & Resource Sharing

As a regional leader in STEAM education, the School emphasizes:

Project-based learning models
Non-formal STEM education
Integration of digital tools and programming

With ORT’s support, the School building was renovated to enhance safety and modernize the learning environment. It actively explores innovations in artificial intelligence and expanding robotics programs.

Educating for Life

Students are encouraged to think critically and creatively through practical coursework and digital literacy. Participation in ORT Olympiads, Model UN, and community initiatives fosters leadership and global awareness. The School’s student government also plays a vital role in promoting responsibility and civic engagement.

Jewish Experience

Pri Etz Chaim is Kyrgyzstan’s key Jewish educational institution. All students, regardless of background, study:

Hebrew
Jewish history and traditions
Bible studies
Jewish dance and music

The School organizes daily prayers and offers family-oriented Jewish education. Students also participate in trips to Israel and international programs like Hidon HaTanakh.

Global Citizenship

Through its affiliation with ORT and international competitions, the School maintains strong global ties. It seeks further collaboration in:

AI and robotics
Informal Jewish education
International ORT initiatives and knowledge sharing