Breaking barriers: new guide on supporting refugees with little formal education through an intercultural lens

CERIC is pleased to announce the English release of “Supporting the Integration of Refugees with Little Formal Education: An Intercultural Approach,” a comprehensive guide aimed at assisting career development professionals in effectively supporting refugees with minimal education.

This publication is the result of a three-year research project financed by CERIC and conducted by researchers Marcelline Bengaly (Université Laval), Patricia Dionne (Université de Sherbrooke), Liette Goyer (Université Laval), Annie Gourde (Université Laval) and Julie Morissette (Université de Sherbrooke).

Canada, known for its welcoming stance towards immigrants, faces unique challenges in integrating refugees who have limited formal education. These individuals often encounter significant sociocultural and health-related obstacles, compounded by the need to acquire new linguistic and professional skills. This guide addresses these complexities by offering strategies that respect intercultural differences while promoting effective integration into the workforce and society.

The guide “Supporting the Integration of Refugees with Little Formal Education: An Intercultural Approach” emphasizes the importance of developing personalized integration plans that align with the ideals and needs of refugees, laying the groundwork for a decent life in their new country. It also highlights the necessity of building bridges with employers and public institutions to facilitate this process. By focusing on both social and professional advocacy, the publication provides a roadmap for interventions that have proven effective for refugees with little formal education.

This publication, originally released in French in early 2024, is now available in English. While the research and results are Quebec-oriented, the insights are applicable across Canada, offering valuable guidance for all career professionals supporting immigrants with little formal education.

“Supporting the Integration of Refugees with Little Formal Education: An Intercultural Approach” is now available for free download in ePDF format and ebook (Kindle). Print copies can be purchased for $29.99 CAD via Amazon.

For bulk purchases of 10 or more copies at a 30% discount, please contact sales@ceric.ca.

This guide is an invaluable resource for career advisors, guidance counsellors, and anyone involved in helping refugees achieve their aspirations for successful integration into Canadian society.