Show-Me State Times

Saint Louis University (SLU) is offering students in refugee camps in Kenya and Malawi a chance to be part of its academic community through the SLU-JWL program. This initiative, supported by Jesuit Worldwide Learning (JWL), aims to provide education to those living in challenging circumstances far from the main campus in St. Louis.

Program director Patricia Bass, Ph.D., and coordinator Eboni Chism, Ph.D., recently visited these students for the first time. The two-week visit allowed them to engage with the students directly and understand their educational environment.

“It was mutually momentous,” Bass stated. “We’ve been working together intimately for two years, and to finally get the chance to meet face to face was incredible.”

Chism highlighted the gratitude felt on both sides during this rare opportunity for connection. “This is different than working with students on campus that you see every day. This is not going to happen all the time,” she noted.

The program provides computers, internet service, and support at learning centers within the camps. However, some challenges remain, such as outdated software on some computers which can hinder access to coursework.

“Trying to log in using OKTA Verify if you don’t have a phone handy is really difficult,” Bass explained.

Despite these hurdles, both educators were impressed by the resilience and initiative of their students who are pursuing projects beyond their academic work.

“They are entrepreneurs who are starting businesses and non-profits," Chism said. "We have one student who has opened a tutoring service for women and orphans."

Students begin their journey at SLU having completed 30 credits via partner institutions like Creighton University or Xavier Institute of Management in India. They continue as full-time remote learners with access to university resources.

The first cohort of SLU-JWL students is expected to graduate with a B.A. in General Studies by summer 2027.

Recently, the program received recognition through a 2025 Senator Paul Simon Spotlight Award for Campus Internationalization from NAFSA: Association of International Education.

An event will be held on May 5 at Busch Student Center where staff will share insights from their recent visit and facilitate discussions over Zoom with participating students.

Jesuit Worldwide Learning strives to offer equitable tertiary education opportunities globally, aiming for an inclusive community that fosters hope towards peace and humanity.

___