Islamic Univ. keeps accreditation

The Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organization, or NVAO, has extended the accreditation of the Islamic University of Rotterdam, after the organization's investigation into the university concluded that the quality of teaching at the institution is adequate. This means that the university can remain open, despite objections from Minister Jet Bussemaker of Education, NOS reports. The Education Minister asked NVAO to do a regular accreditation investigation to find out whether the students of the Islamic University are being well prepared for work in a multi-cultural society and if they are being educated with an open attitude towards dissenters. The organization's investigation found that this is indeed the case and decided to extend the accreditation. This means that the Ministry of Education can not withdraw the university's accreditation. "That does not mean I have confidence in the current rector", Bussemaker wrote in a response, according to NOS. She is preparing a legislative amendment that will allow the ministry to intervene if institutions fail to contribute to the order to teach social responsibility.