College seeks reconciliation

SALATIGA, Central Java: The Christian Satyawacana University has formed a team to explore ways of bringing about reconciliation among its divided campus, split by the election of a new rector last year.

The team is comprised of representatives from the various parties to the conflict, including the foundation that owns the university, the administrators and the students.

The foundation had chosen John JOI Ihalauw as the new rector and this had been approved by the Ministry of Education and Culture in Jakarta.

Many staff lecturers however disputed Ihalauw's election as failing to reflect the aspirations of the college's staff and students. One of the more vocal lecturers, Arief Budiman, had even announced that he was resigning his post in protest. (wah/emb)