Launch of Global Migration Research Findings

At a time of immense global movement of civilians due to conflict, disasters and economic conditions, political debate on migration remains divisive. Curtin University’s Faculty of Health Sciences and its funding partners invite you to a presentation on the findings of three key research projects into global migration.

The research, led by Professor of International Health, Professor Jaya A.R Dantas and her team, focus on the following:

Reclaiming social capital: improving pathways for refugee students into Australian Higher Education
Funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training

Australian universities are receiving increasing numbers of students from refugee backgrounds, whose educational histories vary due to disrupted schooling and protracted conflict. Students from refugee backgrounds have complex needs that remain unmet. The research identified the expectations, aspirations and academic preparedness of refugee students seeking to enter undergraduate study from Intensive English Centres (IECs) based in secondary schools in WA, and highlights effective support and transition pedagogies. Recommendations proposed by the refugee youth will be presented.

Empowerment of Refugee Women in Western Australia
Funded by Healthway

This research study used the participatory empowerment tool, Photovoice to explore refugee women’s perspectives of resettlement in Western Australia. Researchers worked in partnership with Ishar -a multicultural women’s health centre in Perth, and 43 refugee women took part in six Photovoice workshops where they presented their images and stories. An exhibition of photographs will be launched during the event.

Minimising skills wastage and maximising the health of skilled migrant groups
Funded by Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre

Skilled migration is a key element in Australia’s strategy to address major human capital issues and imperatives, however underutilisation and atrophy of professional migrant skills remains a critical problem. The research sought to identify barriers and innovative strategies for ensuring professional migrants’ skills are not wasted, and investigated the links between workforce participation, well-being and health. Policy implications will be presented.

Join us to find out more about the outcomes of these research projects and hear first-hand accounts from some of the research participants.