There are calls for more supports to help migrants from non-English speaking countries integrate in Ireland.
The Irish Federation of University Teachers (IFUT) says that proper supports also enable migrant students 'to achieve their full potential'.
Participants at an IFUT conference today heard that those in the teaching sector need to be given extra resources to help students and their parents get to grips with the language and become part of the community.
Teachers say they need more funding and extra training to help migrants adapt, and that they should be enabled to write education papers in their own languages as well as becoming proficient in English.
Egide Dhala is outreach co-ordinator at the International Organisation for Migration, and says that the education system here must embrace language diversity.
He explains that a multi-faceted approach is needed, and that teachers should be equipped with the appropriate cultural knowledge, training and support.
Joan Donegan, Deputy General Secretary of IFUT, added that “policy generally must aim to provide a welcoming environment, offer relevant supports and facilitate integration into college and school communities, to enable migrant students achieve their full potential".
