Educational Needs and Barriers for African Refugee Students in Manitoba

This study investigated the educational needs and barriers for diverse African refugee students in two inner-city high schools in Manitoba. Forty African refugee students, two principals, eight teachers, four parents, and four community leaders participated in the study. Five focus groups, individual interviews, and school and classroom observations were used to collect date. Results revealed that academic, economic, and psychosocial challenges facing African refugee students adversely affected their ability to integrate and cope well in school, thereby significantly reducing their socio-economic opportunities. Policy implications and urgent reform measures such as forgiveness of refugee resettlement loans and better housing in safer neighbourhoods are suggested.