Ten years ago, when a large number of refugees arrived in Germany, then-Chancellor Angela Merkel set a tone of confidence in a challenging time with her words: »Wir schaffen das!« (»We can do this!«) That same year, Kiron was founded – an organization that demonstrates how courage, solidarity, and above all education can create new perspectives for refugees. On September 9, Kiron celebrated its anniversary at Publix – House for Journalism and Public, together with numerous guests.

As a edtech non-profit organization, Kiron provides refugees with free access to education and supports their integration into the labor market and society through qualification programs. We at the Schöpflin Foundation were among Kiron’s first supporters. For five years, we accompanied the organization in its growth and supported its work with a total of two million euros.

Kiron’s impact now extends across Europe and the Middle East. Guided by its vision of equal access to quality education for everyone, the organization has developed a wide range of training programs as well as individual coaching and mentoring opportunities for refugees. In addition, hundreds of self-study courses are available anytime and anywhere through the digital platform »Kiron Campus«. Over the past ten years, more than 175,000 people from 160 countries have gained access to quality education. Some alumni are now giving back as mentors, coaches, or colleagues, actively shaping Kiron’s work.