African Immigrant Students and Postsecondary Education in Canada: High School Teachers and School Career Counsellors as Gatekeepers

Abstract

Schooling and education, in general, are perceived as a means of integrating children of new immigrants into Canadian society and preparing young immigrants for their future careers. High school education and the subjects taken prepare these young immigrants for postsecondary education and entry into the labour market. However, these newcomer students, particularly those of African origin, are discouraged by systemic structures from pursuing school curricula that may lead them to their aspired careers. This is, for a major part, the result of the role played by teachers and school career counsellors as gatekeepers. Research shows that teachers and career counsellors have preconceived negative, racist and prejudicial stereotypes about African students and their abilities for educational performance and success. Further, Canadian schools promote linguistic structures, authority patterns, and types of curricula that alienate African immigrant students. We contend that schools need to implement culturally appropriate career guidance programs that are conducted by professionals trained in cultural sensitivities. As such, this paper argues for the inclusion of teachers and counsellors who appreciate the culture and learning styles of these students, and who can serve as identity models for the students. In addition, we advance the need for inter-school-community mentorship programs that facilitate minority students’ aspirations into the careers of their choice.