The Effect of Vocational Training Courses on the Cultural Integration of Syrian Refugee Women: The Case of the Fatih District in Istanbul

Authors : Sümeyye Açıkgöz, Mustafa Otrar

Pages : 73-99

View : 48 | Download : 75

Publication Date : 2024-06-28

Article Type : Research

Abstract :This study aims to investigate the issues faced by migrant women in the host country, such as language problems, adaptation difficulties, and unemployment. To this end, a field study was conducted to measure the impact of vocational training programs on the cultural integration of these women. A mixed research design was adopted to evaluate the effects of the training program, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. In the quantitative part, the effects of the training on participants were measured using a single- group pre-test-post test model with scales for \"psychological well-being,\" \"happiness,\" \"life satisfaction,\" and \"psychological resilience.\" In the qualitative part, the impact of the training on participants\' adaptation processes and its contributions to overcoming language barriers were examined in-depth through semi-structured interviews with 7 Syrian and 4 Turkish women. The analysis revealed that the primary challenges faced by Syrian women during their integration process were language barriers, adaptation difficulties, and unemployment. Additionally, the training significantly increased participants\' overall well-being and helped them develop their language skills by expanding their social networks. Moreover, the acquisition of vocational skills was found to enhance participants\' job prospects and self-confidence. The study\'s findings suggest that vocational training programs can play a crucial role in the integration process of disadvantaged groups, such as migrant women. These programs were found to contribute to participants\' social and economic integration and help them overcome language barriers. In conclusion, it is necessary to adopt policies aimed at establishing vocational training courses that can facilitate the integration of Syrian women into Turkish society.
Keywords : İstanbul, Adaptasyon, Entegrasyon, Mesleki Eğitim Kursları, Suriyeli Kadınlar