Satya Wacana conflict worsens

Satya Wacana conflict worsens

SALATIGA, Central Java: Academics opposed to the rector of
Satya Wacana Christian University, John JOI Ihalauw, plan to
establish a rival college within the same campus.

"We have formed a special team in charge of looking for
investors who are interested in setting up a rival university,"
said Ariel Heryanto, one of Ihalauw's opponents grouped in the
"Pro-Democracy Group".

The group members oppose last year's election of Ihalauw and
demand the reinstatement of outspoken Arief Budiman, who
spearheads campaigns for the democratic election of a new rector.

"If the management does not bother to meet our demand, what is
the point of staying with Satya Wacana," Ariel said.

Surprisingly, rector Ihalauw warmly welcomes his adversaries'
plan, saying that he and the Satya Wacana Foundation would be
happy to see a rival college.

"We are ready to compete in a fair and healthy fashion," he
said. (har/pan)