Based on our evaluation, we currently contribute to two essential aspects to the integration of JENA: formal education and learning the Portuguese language.
Portuguese Language
Although learning the local language is a known key factor for successful inclusion, learning Portuguese is not part of the official hosting program. This responsibility has fallen on schools and reception centres, which usually do not have the necessary resources. In addition, schools offer Portuguese classes only from the A1 level which is especially difficult for young people who do not know Latin alphabets. Ponte is creating learning materials at the most basic level to offer to the use of schools and teachers, so that young people can start and continue to learn the language.
Read more about the Portuguese A0 project.
Formal education
We support education professionals to be prepared to receive and support these young people in school. Currently, schools do not have adequate tools noir intercultural understanding for the benefit of students from different backgrounds and contexts. Consequently, these young people have great difficulty in completing compulsory education, progressing to higher education or entering the labour market. Ponte offers cultural training and consultancy to education professionals working with refugee and migrant youngsters.
We have already facilitated moments with teachers to reflect on better ways to support young people with special needs, also in partnership with UNICEF.
Ponte 