Key Points
- Switzerland launched a pilot program to help academically qualified refugees access higher education.
- The initiative supports the country’s goal of addressing skilled labor shortages.
- CHF 1.5 million in startup funding will support projects from 2025 to 2028.
Overview
On March 28, 2025, Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) launched a national pilot program aimed at helping refugees with academic potential transition into higher education. The program is designed to alleviate the country’s ongoing skilled labor shortage by integrating refugees into the Swiss education system and, eventually, the labor market.
The initiative, which will run through 2028, is supported by CHF 1.5 million in SEM startup funding. It targets refugees across all language regions of Switzerland and includes participation from higher education institutions such as the Universities of Basel, Lausanne, and Lucerne, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, and the Lucerne University of Teacher Education.
Participants will receive tailored support to prepare for academic study, including intensive language training, informational sessions, and orientation programs. The program also aims to formalize educational pathways for refugees, helping them earn recognized qualifications in Switzerland.
Implementation will involve close collaboration between higher education institutions, cantonal integration offices, and education authorities to ensure smooth coordination and alignment with the Swiss integration agenda.
Looking Ahead
The pilot program marks a proactive step in addressing both integration challenges and economic labor demands in Switzerland. If successful, it may lead to expanded national programs supporting refugee access to education and employment. Educational institutions and employers should closely monitor the outcomes of this initiative, as it could serve as a model for future talent development programs. Stakeholders engaged in workforce planning, especially in sectors facing critical labor shortages, may benefit from partnering with participating institutions or advocating for broader program application across additional regions and disciplines.
