Ombudsman for Children: Immigrant-background children need more support in schooling
Many immigrant-background children leave comprehensive school without the skills needed for further studies or working life. Experts warn that insufficient language support, bullying and racism are holding back integration.
Finland’s education system is not meeting the needs of all immigrant-background children, according to discussions at the Child Advisory Board meeting. Without stronger support, many fail to acquire the skills needed for secondary education and employment. Mastering Finnish or Swedish is considered vital for integration.
Salla Venäläinen of the Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (Karvi) said municipalities should invest more consistently in preparatory education before children enter mainstream classes.
“Support must always be tailored individually, as immigrant backgrounds cover very different life situations,” she noted.
Adults should raise children to value diversity
Research shows immigrant-background pupils are both more likely to be bullied at school – and to take part in bullying themselves. Ombudsman for Children Elina Pekkarinen said this points to wider problems in Finnish society.
“For a child’s healthy development, it is important that they succeed in learning and gain experiences of belonging,” she said.
“Racism among children reflects adults’ values and causes not only individual distress but also serious social problems. Adults must examine their own attitudes and raise children to value and accept diversity. It is in everyone’s interest that children integrate into Finnish society,” Pekkarinen stressed.
The Ombudsman for Children is an independent authority established by law.
