Philippines’ annual Complementary Pathways Gathering strengthens education support for Rohingya youth

As part of its efforts to build a brighter future for Rohingya youth, the Philippines marked its second annual gathering of the Complementary Pathways (CPath) programme, a pivotal moment in the country’s journey to provide education to Rohingya refugees. 

Held at St. Louis University (SLU) in Baguio City, the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from Rohingya scholars, partner schools, key government agencies, and representatives from the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.  

SLU President Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales emphasized the need for collective efforts to ensure the success of the CPath programme. “Together, we will explore innovative pathways for a scholar-led organization that amplifies the contributions and resilience of the scholars within our community.” 

UNHCR Philippines Assistant Protection Officer Lindsey Atienza highlighted the significance of the event in “institutionalizing refugee-led organizations that will help expand the space for refugees to participate through the network of schools on which the CPath programme depends on.” 

The CPath programme, which began with six (6) students, now supports 15 Rohingya scholars in six (6) schools across the country. This annual gathering has become a vital platform for connecting key stakeholders through activities that enable the strengthening of existing collaborations, addressing of challenges, and exchanging of valuable insights on the programme’s progress. 

One of the most significant moments of the gathering was a dedicated session for the Rohingya scholars, providing them with a platform to voice their concerns and ask questions. During this Q&A session,  State Counsel Paulito de Jesus, Assistant Head of Department of Justice - Refugee and Stateless Persons Protection Unit (DOJ-RSPPU) addressed the students' concerns, shedding light on their rights as refugees in the Philippines. These rights include access to documentation, freedom of movement, and the freedom to practice any religion. 

“We are committed to helping refugee youth gain access to opportunities that will help them thrive, contribute to society, and build a better life for themselves and their families. By working together with academic institutions, organizations, communities, and individuals who share our vision, we hope to further strengthen the foundation of the CPath programme. Together, our efforts will allow these young people to not only succeed but to lead change in their communities and beyond,” de Jesus said, highlighting the importance of long-term solutions and community integration. 

Joshua Madongit, an administrative staff member at SLU who was involved in the activities, expressed the satisfaction that comes with the event’s success. “Being able to see that people are enjoying what we have done, I think it is what makes it very worth it.” 

The event’s highlight was its inclusive format, which featured team-building exercises, sports activities, and interactive sessions. These activities allowed the scholars to connect with one another and stakeholders in an informal setting while discussing their challenges and milestones. 

Racy Martin Del Rosario, a program head from the Social Action Unit of the De La Salle Brothers of the Philippines, emphasized the importance of such gatherings. “It was an opportunity for us to meet each other and to raise awareness of what the Complementary Pathways programme is all about.” 

This second annual gathering is consistent with the Philippines’ efforts to foster inclusive communities that welcome refugees, consistent with its commitments to the 1951 Refugee Convention, the Global Compact on Refugees, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By creating a supportive educational environment, the CPath programme exemplifies how host countries can ensure collaboration within its communities and with international communities to help displaced individuals build a better future. 

At the conclusion of the gathering, UNHCR emphasized a powerful reminder of the importance of education in empowering displaced individuals. More than just a celebration of progress, it reaffirmed the shared vision of a future where all refugees are given the chance to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.  

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ABOUT UNHCR

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights and building a better future for people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution. We lead international action to protect refugees, forcibly displaced communities and stateless people. We deliver life-saving assistance, help safeguard fundamental human rights, and develop solutions that ensure people have a safe place called home where they can build a better future. We also work to ensure that stateless people are granted a nationality. We work in over 130 countries, using our expertise to protect and care for millions.

In the Philippines, UNHCR has maintained its presence since 1975, working on providing durable solutions to refugees, ending and reducing statelessness, and empowering displaced families.

For more information, please contact:

Karen Cepeda
External Relations Associate
[email protected]
(02) 88172398
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