Liberating education systems to support refugees’ education and employment - By Abdulrahman Alhalawani

Many refugees encounter significant challenges when it comes to education and employment opportunities. Forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution, refugee children and youth face interrupted schooling, with limited access to quality formal education during their displacement. The lack of proper educational facilities in refugee camps and host countries hinders their learning and development, putting them at a disadvantage compared to their peers. Documentation and legal status of refugees or the lack thereof is also preventing them from accessing quality education. Additionally, language barriers make it difficult for refugees to access education in their host countries, if it’s not what they are familiar with, leading to further isolation and frustration.  

Refugees also often confront barriers in accessing the job market, with their skills and qualifications not always recognised or accepted by the host country's institutions. Discrimination and xenophobia can also impede their chances of finding gainful employment, pushing them into low-wage and exploitative work. 

That is usually exasperated if host counties are already facing issues with their education systems and have high unemployment rates.  

As a result, the dreams of a brighter future for refugees are often stifled, leaving them in a vulnerable and dependent state while hindering their ability to contribute fully to society. 

Civil society organisations mobilise to respond to these challenges. Many of which have shown remarkable dedication and tireless efforts in attempt to fill the education and employment gaps for refugees and even local citizens, providing crucial support. Yet we seem to only scratch the surface of needs. This begs the questions of what else can be done to overcome this mammoth of a challenge? We think technology has a role to play. 

The Asfari Foundation joined in a panel discussion centred on liberating education systems to bolster refugees' education and employment highlighting a number of trends that we must take advantage of. 

Technological advancements: 

Starlink and other internet access technologies, alongside the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), have the potential to significantly level the playing field in education. By bridging the digital divide, these innovations can revolutionise learning, providing access to high-quality educational resources for underserved and remote communities across the globe. Starlink's satellite-based internet service extends connectivity to areas lacking traditional infrastructure, offering students in rural or economically disadvantaged regions access to online educational content, interactive learning platforms, and video lectures. AI's role in personalised education tailors learning to individual styles and abilities, analysing student performance data to deliver customised lessons and exercises. AI-powered virtual tutors and learning companions provide constant support and feedback, promoting inclusivity and enabling teachers to focus on personalised guidance. Additionally, AI's real-time translation capabilities break language barriers, fostering a more inclusive learning environment. The amalgamation of Starlink, internet technologies, and AI lays the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive educational landscape. We should think of how can we invest in solutions that accelerate this. While this does not replace in person education, but we can develop programming that combines both.  

The Changing World of Work: 

The rapid evolution of the world of work, driven by technological advancements is creating a momentum we should capitalise on and think of fresh approaches to education, employment, and economic empowerment. According to the World Economic Forum's research on the future of jobs, the workforce is undergoing a transformative shift. New sectors such as sustainable energy, energy management technologies, cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence are in high demand. While these changes are happening at a much quicker pace in advanced economies, that shouldn’t stop us from thinking of those opportunities in our programming. Otherwise the only thing that will be felt is the ripple effect of this evolution which will be hard felt in our region (Middle East/Levant) where adoption of technologies is lagging behind (for reasons we can’t do justice in this post). This means the economic, social, environmental divide between advanced economies and developing economies will grow wider disfranchising many including private sector companies, academia, third sector organisations, and youth in our region. The findings highlighted in the World Economic Forum's study underscores the critical importance of focusing on skills that are fit for the future, 21st Century Skills. 

Embracing 21st Century Skills: 

Encouraging a focus on 21st-century skills is crucial to empower the next generation and bridge the gap between individual aspirations and global market opportunities, thereby creating a liberated education system that unlocks the potential for a brighter future. The rise of technologies and artificial intelligence is reshaping job requirements, necessitating reskilling for approximately 50% of employees within the next five years, with about 44% of core skills expected to change. In this evolving workforce, adaptability, critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and digital literacy will be in high demand. By fostering entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship, individuals can explore new domains, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and cultivate a lifelong learning mindset. It is imperative to recognise that formal learning outcomes alone are not sufficient for the global economy, and an increased emphasis on 21st-century skills is essential. 

Importance of Localisation: 

In the realm of education and employment, governments' limitations due to their vested interests and political agendas necessitate thinking beyond conventional approaches. Embracing innovative technologies and models becomes imperative to create independent education and employment systems that circumvent bureaucratic barriers, aligning individual aspirations with opportunities. Despite substantial funding allocated to national education programs, issues like politics, corruption, and xenophobia hinder refugee learning experiences. Civil Society Organisations possess expertise in tackling such challenges, yet their potential impact remains constrained due to funding, particularly for local organisations. Donors must prioritise investing in solutions that deliver real impact and involve committed and accountable stakeholders. 

While we advocate for future-oriented skills and independent initiatives, we cannot overlook the harsh reality faced by individuals struggling to meet basic necessities. Collaborative efforts are essential to address fundamental issues like literacy, protection, shelter, WASH and others. The remarkable work undertaken by numerous organisations in this domain should be supported by further investing in their work and supporting collaborative programming to comprehensively tackle these challenges. 

As we delve into the critical issue of education and employment opportunities for refugees, it becomes evident that we are at a pivotal moment where innovation and collaboration can bring about transformative change. We invite individuals, organisations, and stakeholders with ideas and solutions to step forward and join this crucial endeavour. By leveraging the potential of technological advancements such as Starlink and AI, we can bridge the digital divide and revolutionise learning, ensuring access to high-quality education for marginalised communities worldwide. Embracing 21st-century skills and focusing on tailored solutions will empower the next generation, preparing them for the evolving workforce and fostering a lifelong learning mindset. Moreover, we must recognise the importance of localising efforts and supporting civil society organisations at the grassroots level to overcome barriers and create impactful change.