Education is a fundamental human right, and every child, regardless of their nationality or immigration status, should have access to quality education. However, in Malaysia, migrant children, particularly those with an International Qualification Transfer Scheme (IQTS), face numerous challenges in accessing education. This article delves into the four significant challenges that these children encounter and offers potential solutions to these issues.
1. Legal and Policy Barriers
Immigration Status
The immigration status of migrant children often presents a significant barrier to their access to education. In Malaysia, the children of undocumented migrants are not legally recognised, which makes it difficult for them to enrol in public schools. This lack of legal recognition also means that these children are often at risk of detention and deportation, which further hinders their access to education.
Education Policies
Malaysia’s education policies also pose a challenge for migrant children. The country’s education system is primarily designed for citizens, and there are few provisions for children with an IQTS. As a result, these children often find it difficult to transfer their qualifications and continue their education in Malaysia.
2. Language Barriers
Language Proficiency
Language is another significant barrier for migrant children in Malaysia. The country’s education system is predominantly in Malay, and many migrant children, particularly those from non-Malay-speaking countries, struggle to keep up with their peers due to their limited proficiency in the language.
Lack of Language Support
Moreover, there is a lack of language support for these children in schools. While some schools offer Malay language classes for migrant children, these are often insufficient to help them achieve the level of proficiency required to excel in their studies.
3. Socio-Economic Challenges
Poverty
Many migrant families in Malaysia live in poverty, which greatly affects their children’s access to education. These families often struggle to afford the costs associated with schooling, such as uniforms, textbooks, and transportation. As a result, many migrant children are forced to drop out of school and work to support their families.
Lack of Support Services
There is also a lack of support services for migrant families in Malaysia. Many of these families are not aware of their children’s rights to education, and there are few organisations that provide assistance to these families in navigating the country’s education system.
4. Discrimination and Social Exclusion
Discrimination in Schools
Migrant children in Malaysia often face discrimination in schools. This discrimination can take many forms, from bullying by peers to unfair treatment by teachers. This hostile environment can make it difficult for these children to focus on their studies and can lead to low self-esteem and poor academic performance.
Social Exclusion
Furthermore, migrant children often experience social exclusion in Malaysia. They are often isolated from their peers and are not included in school activities. This social exclusion can have a detrimental effect on their mental health and overall well-being.
In conclusion, migrant children in Malaysia face numerous challenges in accessing education. However, by addressing these challenges, we can ensure that these children have the opportunity to realise their full potential and contribute positively to society. It is crucial that we recognise and respect the rights of all children, regardless of their immigration status, and work towards creating an inclusive and equitable education system for all.
Empower Educators to Transform Migrant Education
As we strive to overcome the barriers to education for migrant children in Malaysia, it is essential to empower the educators who serve them. The IQTS at UWE offers the International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme, specifically designed to enhance the professional development of teachers worldwide. By participating in this programme, educators can meet the stringent qualification requirements of international schools, advance their careers, connect with a global community of professionals, and gain a comprehensive understanding of international curricula. With flexible online study options, the iQTS Programme is the key to unlocking your potential and making a significant impact in the lives of migrant children. Make Your Next Step and join a network of educators dedicated to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments for all.