UNHCR seeks fund to help refugees’ higher education

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, launched its “Aiming Higher” fundraising campaign in the UAE, on International Women’s Day with a mission to support vulnerable refugees across the globe with their higher education.

The campaign was launched in collaboration with some of the most influential women in the UAE including UNHCR high profile supporter Karen Wazen to raise funds for the higher education of 70 refugees. The fundraising digital portal will be receiving funds from till April 8, uniting supporters in a collective effort to invest in refugee higher education.

“As we continue our work to ensure the global protection and advancement of refugees across every stage of their journey, we urge the wider community to support us in our efforts to provide sustainable solutions such as education to achieve lasting change,” stated Houssam Chahine, UNHCR’s Chief of Private Sector Partnerships in MENA on the campaign launch.

“Education plays a pivotal role for refugees to build their futures and to advance their integration into host societies or in their own country upon their return. With only 3% of refugee youth having access to higher education, this campaign is an important stepping stone in realising UNHCR’s ‘15by30’ strategy, aiming to increase this percentage to 15% by 2030, through the provision of technical and vocational education and training, traditional degrees and diplomas, national inclusion and educational pathways, as well as scholarships.”

Numerous influential women across the UAE and advocates of refugee education including Karen Wazen, Lara Tabet, Dr. Maya Al Hawary, Dr. Mariam Shaikh, and Dr. Eng. Suaad Al Shamsi, have endorsed the campaign by using their digital platforms to raise public awareness on the fundraising campaign.

Wazen stated on the occasion, “Today, on International Women’s Day, we must encourage empowered women across the region to stand up and champion the cause of refugee education. I am proud to use my voice for a mission that is so close to my heart and I am honoured to be working together with UNHCR in efforts to provide young refugees with access to the benefits of higher education.”

Supporters of the #AimingHigher will have the opportunity to access virtual graduation ceremonies, regular content regarding the refugees that they have supported, and invitations to attend relevant UNHCR regional and global events.