The discussion revolves around the importance of research, data, and emotions in driving support for refugee education.
Sam Fleischmann and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Mary Maker explored the relevance of data and research in driving positive change and addressing the challenges faced by refugees. Their conversation shed light on the significance of research and data in driving positive change and addressing the challenges faced by refugees.
Maker emphasized the need for higher education institutions, governments, and organizations to leverage statistics and tap into the potential of displaced individuals. With a focus on education as a catalyst for transformation, she highlighted the importance of empathy, collaboration, and creating opportunities.
During the interview, the Goodwill Ambassador drew attention to the alarming data she encountered while co-writing the educational report for the UN. She revealed that only 6 percent of refugees currently have access to tertiary education, although this percentage has improved over time.
By highlighting the statistics of educational attainment among refugees, Maker aimed to underscore the immense potential of the displaced population. She spoke of businessmen, doctors, and teachers within refugee camps who possess valuable skills and knowledge but face barriers due to the lack of recognition and certification in their host countries.
“We have doctors, we have teachers that have fled into the camp but can’t do their job because of documentation. It is not certified in this new country,” she shared.
Ms. Maker emphasized the importance of collaboration between institutions and governments to overcome these obstacles. By working with local governments, universities, and organizations, professionals within refugee communities can be certified.
This benefits not only the refugees themselves but also contributes to the development of the host country. She emphasized the need to view refugees as individuals with unique talents and contributions, rather than mere statistics. She urged higher education institutions to identify and support those interested in various fields, such as the arts, gaming, design, and video production.
She encouraged universities and organizations to see statistics as opportunities for growth and change. By recognizing the abilities and aspirations of refugees, institutions can harness their potential to make a lasting impact.
“They (universities) should not look at the statistics as numbers, but as individuals that have something to bring to the table,” said Maker. “We need to find opportunities and, and figure out how to harness the strength within the statistics that are there. Sometimes with the statistics, you look at the opposite side of it and say, that’s the opportunity,” she added.
Maker also cited the example of a talented gamer from a Ugandan camp who, despite having no formal education, created a successful game and became involved in the gaming industry. She emphasized that the stories and achievements of individuals within refugee communities should inspire universities and organizations to engage and invest in them.
As a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, Maker works with a passionate team that includes influential figures from various fields, such as entertainment and literature. Together, they strive to raise awareness and empathy for displaced people. Her role involves sharing her own story and those of countless others to foster understanding and compassion. She stressed the need for sustained care and attention, as humanitarian efforts should not be fleeting trends but enduring commitments to address the needs of refugees worldwide.
Her insights shed light on the transformative power of education and its vital role in empowering refugees. By leveraging research and data, institutions, governments, and organizations can create opportunities for refugees to thrive and contribute to their communities.
