Complementary pathways, including education pathways, provide legal and safe routes for refugees to move to a third country and build a future with dignity. The project is delivered in partnership with UNHCR and with the support of the Irish Government, focusing on refugees living in countries of first asylum where they are denied access to education and employment opportunities. Our mission is to provide talented young refugees with the chance to come to Ireland, gain a degree in a sector where there is a skills shortage, and build a brighter future for themselves
How It Works
The programme in launched in Ireland in 2022. It connects refugees with Irish universities and community sponsorship groups. The students are welcomed into supportive communities, enabling them to focus on their studies and integrate into Irish society.
Partner universities currently include:
Twelve students have arrived to Ireland since the first scholarships were offered in 2023.
Building Sustainable Pathways to Higher Education for Refugees Across the EU
Education transforms lives. Yet, only 5% of the world’s refugees currently access higher education, compared to 39% of non-refugees. The Share HERCoN project is dedicated to changing this reality. We are creating sustainable pathways to higher education (HE) for refugees across Belgium, France, Ireland, and Portugal.
The Role of Community Sponsorship Groups
Community sponsorship groups play a critical role in the success of the Nasc Education Pathways project. These groups provide practical and emotional support to students, including help with accommodation, orientation, and social integration.
If you are interested in volunteering or forming a sponsorship group, please contact us to learn more about how you can make a difference.
Opportunities for Universities
We are always looking to expand our network of university partners. By participating in Education Pathways, universities can contribute to global education access and diversity while helping to address Ireland’s skills shortages in key sectors.
If your institution would like to get involved, please reach out to us for more information.
Get Involved
Whether you are an individual, part of a community group, or represent an educational institution, there are many ways to support the Nasc Education Pathways project. To learn more about how you can contribute, please visit our take action page.
Together, we can make education accessible to all and help refugees build successful futures in Ireland.
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