Sikkuy chose to research this topic because the fair and equal representation of the Arab citizens in the academic community and professions is a vital component to advancing equal employment opportunities in the private and public sector, to promoting social mobility and to fostering a shared society for Jews and Arabs.  This was a quantitative study that examined the representation of Arab citizens in four main areas:  the percentage of Arabs in degree-granting programs; the number of Arabs in teaching positions; the number of Arabs in the administrative staff; the number and percentage of Arabs on the university’s governing bodies.  In chapter four (page 34), the main findings are displayed.  The study found that Arabs comprise only 8.5% of the degree students in Israel, only 1.75% of the lecturers and professors, and less than 1% of the administrative staff.  Arabs comprise less than 2% of the governing bodies (board of trustees and board of directors).  Arab citizens comprise about 20% of Israel’s population.

 

While the numbers of degree students is significant and growing, the overall picture is disappointing, especially when considering that the academic institutions should be in the forefront of advancing equality for Arab citizens.  In our recommendations, we called upon the council of higher education and the presidents of the universities to make a new and concerted effort to substantially increase the overall representation of Arab citizens in their institutions at all levels.

 

 

We thank you, our friends and supporters, who continue to make our work possible with your moral commitment and financial support.

 

                        Sincerely,

 

               Co-Executive Directors