Migrant Education

Millions of innocent men, women and children have been forced to flee their villages in Burma and seek refuge in neighbouring countries. The majority cross the border illegally, and become illegal migrants in Thailand, India, and Malaysia.

Without legal status, migrants are vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. Many work in sweatshop industries; receive low pay, work long hours and since they work illegally, they are unable to protest. They live with the constant threat of arrest and deportation.

Whilst parents work to survive, children are left vulnerable. Under international law children should have the right to access neighbouring countries education systems, but even if access to education is possible, school fees, equipment, and uniforms are not affordable on a migrants wage. Instead, children are left to wander the streets unaccompanied, putting them at risk of abuse, exploitation and trafficking.

Together with partner organisations, Children on the Edge works to provide safe places for migrant children to receive an education, nutritional support and to partake in recreational activities. When necessary, Children on the Edge provides support to allow migrant children to attend the local school.