Evaluating and reframing vocational education and training for refugees: Insights from five refugee groups across three cities of India

Dagar, P. (2024) Evaluating and reframing vocational education and training for refugees: Insights from five refugee groups across three cities of India. Compare: A Journal of Comparative and International Education, 54(1), pp. 110-127. (doi: 10.1080/03057925.2022.2078957)

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Abstract

Contrary to common assumptions, the vast majority of the world’s refugees reside in neighbouring countries in the Global South. This paper explores the complex interaction of global vocational education policies with the local realities of five communities within the under-researched yet highly relevant refugee context of India, across three major cities. It examines whether the stated policy purpose of VET addresses the practical requirements and aspirations of refugees. Drawing on interviews, focus groups, and participatory drawing with 66 respondents from Afghan, Rohingya, Somali, Chin, and Tibetan communities, and staff members from refugee organisations, this paper argues for a move away from the unidimensional goal of economic self-reliance for refugees. By bridging the capabilities approach with intersectionality, the paper calls attention to, and draws policy suggestions for, increment and diversification of VET opportunities to address multiple facets of refugees’ lives, and their inclusion in national VET institutions.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:This research was supported by GCRF-SHLC College of Social Sciences funding at the University of Glasgow.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Dagar, Dr Preeti
Authors: Dagar, P.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Education
Journal Name:Compare: A Journal of Comparative and International Education
Publisher:Taylor & Francis
ISSN:0305-7925
ISSN (Online):1469-3623
Published Online:19 May 2022
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2022 The Authors
First Published:First published in Compare: A Journal of Comparative and International Education 54:110-127
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons licence

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