The Israel Diamond Institute (IDI) has officially launched its first academic management programme, for the diamond industry, in a joint venture with the Shenkar College of Engineering and Design, located in Ramat Gan. The launch was held at the Diamond Complex in Ramat Gan, recently. The program is designed to train diamond managers to successfully meet the challenges within a rapidly changing industry. %% The ceremony was attended by 24 members who have been selected for the programme, along with industry professionals including Moti Ganz, Chairman of the Professional Training Committee Meir Dalumi, IDI Managing Director Eli Avidar, Israel Diamond Manufacturers Association Managing Director Udi Sheintal and Israel Diamond Exchange Managing Director Yair Cohen. %% At the ceremony, IDI Chairman Moti Ganz said, “We have chosen 24 of the brightest members of The Israeli Diamond Industry to take part in this course. We are confident that they will acquire tools that will help them to improve their management skills, as well as to achieve better business results for their companies.” With a high number of applications received, registration was closed early. Ganz mentioned that IDI would closely evaluate the progress of the 52 week programme. %% The course, 52 weekly sessions of 8 hours each will be held at Shenkar. Graduates will be recognised with receive a special certificate from Shenkar and IDI, along with 14 academic credits which can be applied to a degree programme. The course would be taught by lecturers from the Shenkar College’s school of Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, and by diamond industry experts.