The Role of Churches and Networks in Affecting Educational Access for Children of Migrant Workers in Samut Sakhon Province

Abstract

This qualitative research aims to (1) examine how the church functions in relation to the educational process, problems, and obstacles in providing multicultural education for children of migrant workers (CMWs); and to (2) examine how migration networks affecting CMWs’ access to education. Purposive selection was used to choose thirty key informants, including the Archdiocese of Bangkok Center's social director, center management directors and managers, teachers, parents, student groups and migration networks. Data was collected by documentary research, observation, fieldwork, on-the-job training as a teaching volunteer, and in-depth interviews. Results were that Samut Sakhon Province received a large number of CMWs from various ethnic and national backgrounds.  As a result, the St. Anna Catholic Center, the Marist Center, and the St. Joachim Catholic Center for Immigrants offered multicultural education to support and encourage children of diverse backgrounds. Enfants du Mékong (Children of the Mekong), a French Catholic organization, also offerred monthly assistance.  Additionally, CMWs' access to education was supported, encouraged, and made easier by both official and informal migratory networks.