ABSTRACT
The Bedouin have inhabited the Negev since the fifth century B.C.E. Today, those Bedouin living in the Negev constitute nearly 25 % of the area's population. This community, which represents a traditional, conservative Middle Eastern society, adds yet another element of diversity to the Negev. This chapter focuses on education which, while affected by this gap, has a potentially key role to play in the successful integration of the Bedouin into the mosaic of communities in the Negev and into the larger Israeli society. Bedouin Arab education in the Negev is at a critical juncture today, and the formulation of goals and objectives for its future development is of utmost importance. The Bedouin educational system must have professionally qualified and experienced educators and administrators from the community who are able to plan for and provide Bedouin children and youth with the education and skills needed for their future in Israel.
