With different languages, customs, religions and traditions, the coexistence of students from multiple cultural backgrounds can lead to difficulties in communication, adaptation and social integration. Linguistic heterogeneity is one of the main barriers faced by immigrant students. Many arrive without an adequate command of Portuguese, which can make it difficult not only to learn, but also to interact with teachers and classmates. In addition, differences in teaching and assessment methods between the countries of origin and the Portuguese education system can create gaps in the learning process.
This phenomenon therefore presents significant challenges for the integration of these children and young people, as well as for the work of teachers and school management. But it is also an opportunity to enrich the educational experience for everyone. The fact that Portuguese schools welcome pupils of different nationalities makes the school environment a dynamic multicultural space. It is essential to guarantee inclusive and effective education for all students and this requires well-structured strategies and policies.
The development of effective public policies, combined with the commitment of schools and teachers, can guarantee a more inclusive and equitable environment. Investing in teacher training, psychosocial support and strengthening school-community relations are fundamental steps towards ensuring that all students have the same opportunities for academic and personal success. The path to a more inclusive education depends on the joint efforts of educators, government and society.
The Difficulties Faced by Immigrant Students
Immigrant students often face language barriers, difficulties adapting to the new education system and emotional challenges related to being away from their roots and family. Many arrive with levels of schooling that differ from Portuguese standards, which can lead to difficulties in keeping up with the curriculum and in relationships with classmates.
Discrimination and social exclusion are also factors that can make integration difficult. Without a welcoming environment and adequate support, these students run the risk of facing demotivation and academic failure, jeopardising their academic and professional future.
The Role of Teachers and Schools
Teachers play an essential role in the integration of immigrant students, but they often lack specific training to deal with cultural and linguistic diversity in the classroom. In addition, work overload and a lack of resources make it difficult to implement differentiated methodologies to support these students.
Schools, for their part, need to develop welcoming strategies that involve not only the students, but also their families. Promoting an inclusive and intercultural school environment can help reduce barriers and promote better adaptation.
Strategies to Support Teachers and Schools
The Minister of Education, Science and Innovation has announced that the number of immigrant pupils will increase by 160% between 2018 and 2023. Last year, the number of immigrant students represented 13.9 per cent of the total.
Given this reality, I think that the Portuguese education system would benefit greatly if measures were implemented to encourage the continuous training of teachers (to teach Portuguese as a non-native language), produce adapted teaching materials, provide psychosocial support for foreign students and promote the involvement of families to strengthen the relationship between the school and the community.
I hope that these changes can take place as soon as possible, because if the current reality is not changed, national cohesion will be jeopardised.
