Bridging Recognition Gaps: Collaborative Approaches to Qualification Recognition for Refugees and Displaced Individuals

Refugees and asylum seekers often face significant challenges in credential recognition, limiting their access to professional and educational opportunities. This session will showcase efforts by World Education Services (WES), South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) to create pathways for displaced individuals to have their qualifications recognized despite documentation barriers. The discussion will explore the outcomes of the WES-SAQA pilot project, SAQA's ongoing initiatives in South Africa, and OCT's regulatory perspective on facilitating access to professional licensing for refugee educators. By highlighting innovative policy approaches and best practices, this session will provide insights into how different stakeholder qualification authorities, regulators, and credential evaluators work together to support displaced professionals.