JWL student and refugee youth, Isaac Ayuen, advocates for inclusive digital tools at UNESCO Digital Learning Week
“One of the most pressing educational challenges we face is the lack of access to quality education due to inadequate access to the necessary resources that are needed by the refugees to have the same kind of quality education as children or youth from the cities or other towns,” said Isaac, a refugee youth advocate at the 2024 UNESCO Digital Learning Week.
“One of the most pressing educational challenges we face is the lack of access to quality education due to inadequate access to the necessary resources that are needed by the refugees to have the same kind of quality education as children or youth from the cities or other towns,” said Isaac, a refugee youth advocate at the 2024 UNESCO Digital Learning Week.
Jesuit Worldwide Learning (JWL) was honoured to participate in this global gathering of leaders and innovators which explored the future of AI, education, and equitable access for marginalised communities. The event offered a unique opportunity to engage in critical discussions on how emerging technologies can transform learning for underserved populations, in perfect alignment with JWL’s mission of providing quality education to those who are often left behind.
A standout moment for us was seeing Isaac, a JWL BA in Sustainable Development student, take the stage as the only refugee voice on the youth panel. In his powerful presentation, Isaac advocated for universal access to technology, highlighting the necessity for safe, inclusive, and equitable digital tools that empower all learners, regardless of their background or location. His message resonated with the core values of the conference, emphasising the critical role technology plays in breaking down barriers for students in underserved communities. “So, let’s make it this way,” he said. “If you cannot take a good number of refugees to the traditional universities, technology can bring universities to the refugees through connected learning.”
Isaac’s voice was a reminder of why we at JWL are committed to integrating innovative technologies into our educational programmes. By doing so, we ensure that learners everywhere have the opportunity to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The connections and insights gained from UNESCO Digital Learning Week will continue to fuel our efforts to strengthen our partnerships and expand our reach, advancing towards a future of equitable and inclusive education, so every learner, wherever they may be, can access the tools they need to thrive.