'Bedouin president will turn college into Islamic school'

Despite objection of some faculty members, Rahat resident Professor Alean al-Krenawi named head of Achva Academic College. 'My appointment – victory for democracy,' he says

Tamar Trabelsi-Hadad|Published: 06.20.12 , 10:55

Professor Alean al-Krenawi, a resident of the Bedouin town Rahat, was official named Tuesday as the new president of the Achva Academic College of Education.

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According to the Yedioth Ahronoth daily, his appointment was approved last week by the college's board of directors despite the objection of a number of senior faculty members.

"How can a Muslim continue instilling the values related to love for the land and army service, which the college has been instilling for years?" One of the critics said.

"His appointment will turn the college into an Islamic academic institution, and Jewish students will not want to enroll," the faculty member argued.

Despite the criticism, al-Krenawi's appointment was officially approved by the college's general assembly.

"My appointment is a victory for democracy and sends a message to Arabs that they can achieve any goal and succeed," the new president said.

"In Israel we are one big family, with many opinions. Together we will promote the college's interests. I am a proud Israeli and believe in multiculturalism," al-Krenawi added.

Education Minister Gideon Sa'ar phoned al-Krenawi to congratulate him. He called the objection to the appointment "ugly and racist."

"Israel is committed to equal rights for all its citizens," the minister said.