Students learn challenges of being a refugee

Wollongong City Council has partnered with Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra and Dapto High School students to gain an understanding of what it would be like to flee your country and leave everything you know.

It’s the fourth year students have been given the opportunity to participate in the Illawarra Refugee Challenge and learn about refugee experiences and journeys. The challenge helps year 10 and 11 students experience what a young refugee might endure before settling in a new home.

This year’s Challenge will be held at Dapto High School between 3-6 September.  At the Challenge, 20 Year 11 students who are studying Human Society and Its Environment [HSIE] will conduct tours for their fellow Year 9 and 10 peers, as well as students from neighbouring schools.

The Challenge consists of six semi-simulated stations in which the students and former refugees conduct discussions, scenarios and role playing. The students look at the reality of water and food supplies, sanitation and education in a refugee camp.

Wollongong City Council’s Community and Cultural Development Manager Sue Savage said: “The challenge is an innovative way for students and community members to gain an insight into refugee experiences and journeys. It shows the daily reality of life in a refugee camp and in a city.”

MCCI Youth & Community Manager Allyson Pazos said: “MCCI is proud to partner with Council and local Dapto High School on the Refugee Challenge. Our community has a long history of supporting refugees settle in the Illawarra and make a new life in Australia.

“This Refugee Challenge highlights the often difficult journey of refugees and we congratulate all the young people involved to help raise community awareness of refugees’ experiences and to celebrate cultural diversity and respect.”

For more information you can contact Council’s Customer Service on (02) 4227 7111 or visit our website.

Like Loading...