NSW Islamic School Faces Closure Over Alleged Antisemitism, Principal’s ‘Fit and Proper’ Status Questioned
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The New Madinah College in regional New South Wales has been issued a 28-day notice to demonstrate its principal meets required standards of conduct, or risk losing its registration following a lengthy investigation into allegations of antisemitism.
The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) initiated the probe nearly 11 months ago, responding to concerns surrounding comments made about Zionism attributed to an online account identified as belonging to Sheikh Abdulghani Albaf. The investigation centers on accusations of antisemitism stemming from these years-long online postings.
Islamic School Under Scrutiny
New Madinah College, as described on its website, provides a curriculum blending Islamic education – including instruction in the Koran, Arabic language, and Islamic values – with core subjects for students from kindergarten through year 10. NESA began monitoring the school’s policies and procedures shortly after the investigation commenced, conducting an inspection mid-year.
In a statement, a NESA spokesperson emphasized the authority’s firm stance, stating they had issued “a show cause notice to the chair of New Madinah College’s board about the conduct of the school’s principal.” The spokesperson added, “There is no tolerance for non-compliance with registration requirements, including the expectation that all responsible persons meet fit and proper requirements.” NESA’s primary concern, they affirmed, “remains the safety and wellbeing of students.”
Registration at Risk
According to NESA, the school has less than a month to provide evidence demonstrating Sheikh Albaf’s adherence to the “fit and proper” person test. Failure to do so could result in the cancellation of New Madinah College’s registration. The NSW government’s education website clarifies that unregistered schools are not legally permitted to operate.
Calls for Swift Action
The protracted length of the investigation has drawn criticism. Robert Gregory, chief executive officer of the Australian Jewish Association, expressed his disappointment, stating, “We’re talking about almost an entire year where children have been learning in this school where clearly there are issues.” He further warned, “We’ve seen recently where incitement can lead in society, and it can end in tragic results,” emphasizing the urgency of addressing such concerns, particularly within educational environments.
Government Response and Policy Review
NSW Acting Education Minister Courtney Houssos has directed NESA to undertake a review of the “fit and proper person” requirements for school principals. “This will ensure that unacceptable conduct does not go unchecked,” Houssos stated, adding, “We will not hesitate to take action against antisemitism in all its forms.”
The ABC has reached out to Sheikh Albaf, New Madinah College, and the Islamic Schools Association of Australia for comment.
The situation underscores the increasing scrutiny of educational institutions and the imperative to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
