The Issue of Platformisation, Philanthropy and Sovereignty: Guarantee to Refugee Access to Higher Education

Abstract

This article describes the results from the second stage of a research conducted from 2022 to 2024 using descriptive, exploratory and analytical methodologies in a social action and formation programme of a Dutch university and of a startup acting in Germany. Both support refugees undergoing a process of recognition and integration by promoting access to higher education. The paper aims to analyse concepts derived from a research focusing on governance production from the notion of GovTech, platformisation, philanthropy, sovereignty in education, with refugees as key actors facing violations of basic human rights. The socioeducational besides judicialisation perspective, provides an approach to understanding the subject complexity. Two academic visits were conducted to explore the university inclusion program and the startup initiatives, complemented by reflections from two leaders engaged in collaborative interventions with refugees. The findings indicate that while digital platforms enhance access to educational resources, inadequate technological infrastructure hampers refugee participation. Continued investment and philanthropy in these platforms can cultivate a diverse and innovative educational environment. In alignment with the post-COVID-19 movement and e-governance, promoting local-global access and citizenship by collaboration among stakeholders is vital. The conclusions underscore the need for policies that ensure equal access and ongoing support for keeping refugees, the most vulnerable group, in higher education.