Education Minister Yoav Kisch Criticized for Controversial Decisions

Israeli Education Minister Yoav Kisch is facing sharp criticism for his handling of the education system, particularly following the dismissal of Gal Alon, the director-general of the National Authority for Measurement and Evaluation in Education (RAMA). Alon's dismissal reportedly stemmed from his insistence on publishing the results of the 'Tnu'fa' science exams for ninth graders, which revealed that only 3% of students met the required academic standards. Critics argue that Kisch's decision to remove Alon was an attempt to suppress unfavorable data.

The article further points to a press conference held by Kisch to celebrate a minor increase in eligibility for high school matriculation exams in high-tech fields. However, it is alleged that last year, Kisch allowed students to choose between a physics or computer science matriculation exam and an internal grade, with nearly all opting for the internal grade. This suggests the celebrated achievement was based on internal assessments rather than standardized exams.

Kisch's tenure is characterized by a preference for confrontation over consensus, according to the report. This approach was evident in his previous attempt to impose a curriculum on Jewish values and tradition onto the state education system without broad agreement, which included promoting trips to the West Bank and reportedly fostered animosity towards Judaism.

Furthermore, the article highlights Kisch's perceived failure to combat the growing boycott of Israeli academia internationally. Instead of addressing this issue, he is accused of clashing with top Israeli universities and promoting private institutions. The conflict escalated when, at the demand of Haredi and Haredi-nationalist factions, Kisch advanced the implementation of gender segregation in advanced academic degrees, leading to the resignation of five members of the Council for Higher Education.