The International Center for Refugee and Migration Studies (ICRMS) held its second career counseling session at UNHCR School No. 15 (boys’ school) and No. 23 (girls’ school) in the Refugee Village of Saranan on 29th April 2024.
Ms. Anqa Gharshin conducted a tailored career counseling session for female refugee students at School No. 23, focusing on bolstering self-esteem, fostering positive self-image, and encouraging acceptance of their bodies. Acknowledging the unique challenges faced by students from secluded, low-literacy, and low-income areas, the session aimed to initiate self-discovery and understanding. Through interactive activities such as identifying personal strengths and weaknesses, envisioning themselves as unique individuals, and crafting bucket lists, the students embarked on a journey of self-exploration, learning to recognize their worth and aspirations despite the constraints of their circumstances. The session culminated in an engaging exercise involving completing sentences about their emotions, fears, strengths, coping mechanisms, relationships, and future aspirations, fostering a supportive environment where students felt comfortable expressing themselves and eager to continue their interactions with counselors.
Ms. Gharshin’s career counseling session provided a transformative experience for female refugee students, empowering them to embrace their individuality, dream beyond their current limitations, and engage in meaningful self-reflection. By creating a safe and interactive space, the session successfully encouraged self-expression and instilled a sense of optimism and agency among the students, laying the groundwork for continued personal growth and exploration.
Mr. Ali’s session at School No. 15 Refugee Village, Saranan focused on empowering students with valuable insights and skills related to their career paths. Through engaging in group discussions and activities, students were provided with opportunities to deepen their understanding of various career nuances. Trainers diligently identified and addressed specific gaps in knowledge and skills among the students, adapting content and activities to suit the unique needs of each group. With the support of dedicated staff and teachers, the session aimed to foster a conducive learning environment and equip students with the tools they need for a successful future. There was total 89 participants among whom 49 were female. The session ended with certificate distribution and refreshment..