On the Precipice of Progress: National policy openings that increase forcibly displaced adolescent and youth enrollment and retention in secondary education

The Secondary Education Working Group (SEWG), UNHCR, and Plan International are co-hosting a virtual launch of the new policy publication, On the Precipice of Progress: National policy openings that increase forcibly displaced adolescent and youth enrollment and retention in secondary education. Drawing on case studies from Colombia, Iraq (KRI), Nigeria, and Rwanda, the publication highlights how national policy shifts—when paired with implementation support and accountability—can meaningfully improve access, retention, and inclusion in secondary education systems for forcibly displaced adolescents and youth.

The webinar will begin with introductory remarks and framing by UNHCR, emphasising the urgency of addressing secondary education inclusion within the broader refugee and migrant education agenda. This will be followed by a presentation of high-level findings and the action agenda, drawing out cross-country trends, tensions, and opportunities for policy influence and collaboration.

A panel discussion will bring together voices from research, government, and programme implementation, exploring three critical themes: the role of teachers in supporting inclusion, the importance of social cohesion within national systems, and the need for coherent pathways for displaced youth beyond secondary education. The discussion will also share insights on national policy engagement, reflect on the challenges of operationalizing inclusion policies at the subnational level, and provide perspectives on global education inclusion priorities and the way forward. The session will conclude with reflections on how the action agenda can guide future programming and advocacy.

Panelists:

• Nina Papadopoulos, Sr Education Officer, Education Section UNHCR 
• Chris Henderson, Lead Researcher,  Teachers College, Columbia University
• Whitney Hough, Teachers College, Columbia University 
• Ms Shelan, General Director, Education Planning, Ministry of Education, KRI
• Catalina Gomez, Disaster Risk Manager, Plan International Colombia

The recording of this web event and all presentations will be posted on the INEE website. If you have any questions about the web event, contact [email protected].