EMUNI University is continuing its collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation in developing sustainable complementary study paths for refugee students.
This initiative, successfully launched as a pilot in the academic year 2024/25, addresses the pressing need for greater access to higher education among refugees – currently available to only about 7% globally. Through this programme, individuals who have completed undergraduate studies in their first country of asylum are given the opportunity to pursue master’s studies in Slovenia and beyond.
At EMUNI, two students from Syria are already enrolled, with two more from Syria and Iran set to join in the upcoming academic year. Looking ahead, starting from 2026/27, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation has announced funding for up to 15 scholarships per year, further aligning Slovenia with EU efforts to create safe and legal education pathways for refugees.
The initiative is supported at the EU level through the European Commission’s AMIF project, with a consortium led by Italy and joined by France, Bulgaria, Germany, and Slovenia. The project aims to build a comprehensive support system for students, including pre-arrival preparation, integration into studies, language and learning support, and transition to the labour market.
As an associated partner, EMUNI University will contribute by:
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Ensuring enrolment in accredited EMUNI master’s programmes.
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Supporting students before departure and upon arrival through introductory programmes, tutoring, and language support.
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Actively participating in the multi-stakeholder coordination mechanism and development of the national framework.
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Engaging in international exchanges to share good practices and strengthen cooperation.
This collaboration reinforces EMUNI’s mission of inclusivity, knowledge exchange, and intercultural understanding in the Euro-Mediterranean region, while empowering talented refugee students to pursue their academic and professional aspirations.
