University-Ingo partnerships for refugee education
The case of Elimisha Kakuma
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 22436674 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Elisa Gamba (University of Padua, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 5 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Publication date | 2026-01-27 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Discover Education (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2731-5525 • E-ISSN: 2731-5525 |
| Publisher | Springer Science and Business Media LLC (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1007/s44217-025-01080-7 |
| OpenAlex | W7125824700 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 19 |
How can higher education institutions contribute more effectively to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: inclusive and quality education for all? This paper explores the question through the case study of Elimisha Kakuma , an association supporting young refugees in Kakuma Camp, Kenya, in accessing higher education abroad. In collaboration with American, Canadian and UK universities, Elimisha assists students throughout the admissions process, offering tailored support to navigate cultural barriers, application procedures, and financial challenges. Beyond admission, Elimisha prepares students for their transition to life abroad, equipping them with academic skills, emotional resilience, and practical tools for adaptation. The association also provides a dedicated study space within the camp, fostering a learning community supported by resources such as computers, books, and academic mentoring. Through online learning opportunities, students engage early with their future universities, developing a sense of belonging before departure. This paper argues that Elimisha represents a best-practice model of NGO-university collaboration, showing how partnerships beyond academia can create meaningful opportunities for displaced learners. By analysing the strengths and challenges of this initiative, drawing on a field visit to the camp (January 2025) and twelve semi-structured interviews with students, association staff, and university partners, the paper identifies effective strategies and scalable solutions for improving refugee access to higher education worldwide.
Higher education · Refugee · Service-learning · Education and experiences of immigrants and refugees · Migration, Health and Trauma · Tourism, Volunteerism, and Development
From recipients to donors
Higher education for refugees
Governance and duty in global refugee education
The super-disadvantaged in higher education
What works to facilitate displaced and refugee-background students’ access and participation in European higher education
Higher education policy dynamics in turbulent times – access to higher education for refugees in Europe
Higher Education for Forcibly Displaced Migrants, Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Education for Refugees
Education and the new imperialism
Refugee Education
Revisiting aspiration and ability in international migration
| Highly cited | No |
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