Cultural education plays a critical role in shaping a person’s identity, sense of belonging, and understanding of opportunities within their local context. Without a strong foundation in their cultural heritage, history, and the potential for growth in their own countries, many African youths are vulnerable to misinformation about life abroad. This often fuels the belief that Europe offers unlimited opportunities, while the challenges of migration, including legal, social, and economic hurdles, are downplayed or ignored.
Research from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) underscores that misinformation about the realities of migration and life in Europe is a significant factor. Smugglers and traffickers exploit this lack of knowledge, painting unrealistic pictures of prosperity abroad to lure young people into dangerous routes across the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.
According to studies published by the African Development Bank (AfDB), many African nations possess untapped potential in agriculture, technology, and creative industries. However, the lack of cultural and vocational education that highlights these opportunities prevents young people from seeing pathways to success within their own communities. Instead, they are drawn to the myth of greener pastures abroad, leading to dangerous migration patterns.
Cultural education also instills pride and confidence in a person’s roots. The UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report (2023) notes that young people disconnected from their cultural identity are more likely to adopt foreign ideals, seeing their home countries as places of despair rather than possibility. This loss of cultural pride erodes resilience and self-reliance, contributing to the migration crisis.
The journey to Europe is fraught with risks, including exploitation, human trafficking, and death. The IOM Missing Migrants Project reports that over 28,000 migrants have died trying to cross the Mediterranean since 2014. Many of these deaths could have been prevented with better access to education, employment, and an understanding of the dangers involved.
Promoting cultural education can play a transformative role in addressing these issues. Programs such as ‘Afrika Festival Tübingen” which celebrate African heritage, teach entrepreneurship, and highlight local opportunities can empower youth to build sustainable futures at home. By integrating cultural pride and awareness with practical skills, governments, NGOs, and community leaders can create an environment where migration becomes a choice rather than a necessity.
The absence of cultural education is not just a gap in learning; it’s a driver of dangerous migration patterns. Bridging this gap through targeted educational programs and awareness campaigns can help young Africans envision a brighter future within their own countries, reducing the need for perilous journeys abroad.