2025: The Year of Migrant Education

In a context where binational relations between Mexico and the United States are increasingly crucial for social and economic development, education stands as a fundamental pillar to strengthen ties and improve the living conditions of millions of migrants. In this regard, the “University for Migrants” program, spearheaded by FHC International and Universidad Santander, marks a milestone in the history of binational education by offering a real alternative to combat educational gaps among migrants.

The Magnitude of the Educational Gap

The educational gap within migrant communities has been a persistent issue. According to data from the Pew Research Center, in 2020, nearly 30% of Latino migrants aged 25 and older in the United States did not have a high school diploma. Although this figure decreased to 24% by 2024, there is still a long road ahead.

This educational deficit not only limits the job opportunities available to migrants but also hinders their social and economic integration. The University for Migrants initiative aims to bridge this gap by offering official bachelor's degrees in a record time of 10 months, with scholarships covering 80% of the program’s commercial cost.

An Unprecedented Opportunity

The program is designed to meet the needs of those who had to abandon their studies due to lack of time or resources. With an offering that includes bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, this initiative not only fosters professional development but also prepares migrants to join the U.S. workforce legally and competitively.

A concrete example of this transformation is the bachelor's degree in bilingual education, a critical field given the growing shortage of bilingual teachers in the United States. In 2024, there was an estimated shortage of over 100,000 educators capable of teaching in both English and Spanish, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics. The Universidad Santander model, with programs backed by The Hague Apostille, offers a viable solution to this problem while empowering migrants with highly sought-after skills.

Economic and Social Impact

The potential impact of this program cannot be understated. In 2024, the contribution of Latino migrants to the U.S. GDP surpassed $2.5 trillion, a 15% increase compared to 2020. However, much of this workforce remains concentrated in low-skill, low-wage jobs. Higher education paves the way for better-paying jobs with greater benefits, improving the quality of life for migrant families and strengthening the economies of both countries.

Moreover, by transforming workers into professionals, this program helps shift the perception of migrants from being an economic burden to being valuable assets within the system.

Challenges for 2025

While the University for Migrants program represents a significant step forward, it also faces key challenges to maximize its impact in 2025:

1. Access to Technology: Despite growth in connectivity, access to devices and high-quality internet remains an obstacle for many migrant communities.

2. Credential Recognition: Ensuring that certifications issued by Universidad Santander are accepted without restrictions in the United States is essential to secure graduates’ employability.

3. Awareness and Outreach: Intensifying information campaigns is crucial to ensure more migrants are aware of and can access this program.

4. Government Support: Collaboration between the governments of Mexico and the United States could enhance the program’s benefits, facilitating its implementation and expanding its reach.

The year 2025 promises to be decisive for migrant education. Initiatives like the University for Migrants not only address a pressing need but also offer an inspiring vision of how education can serve as a bridge toward a more equitable and prosperous future. As a society, it’s time to think collectively, not individually, and recognize that investing in migrant education is an investment in the well-being of all.

The University for Migrants program by Universidad Santander is a great opportunity to transform workers into professionals and change your migratory status.

"It’s time to think collectively, not individually."

Written by: Marco Tardelli 

Founder and Chairman of the Board, FHC.