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Number of people that can be intergrated
Before we can intergrate the refugees in Kozani, we first have to think about how many of them can live comfortably here. If we take past examples of other successful refugee intergrations, like in Tilos, where 500 citizens could accept a dozen families (70 people), and the population of our town, which is about 40.000, that would be 5.600 people. But, due to the lack of space, time and money, it is actually less than a thousand. To be exact, it would probably be 500-750 people. -
Where they can stay
Since our town is fairly small, there are mainly only two options for accommodation. The first option is that the refugees will go live in some of the many vacant houses and apartments. To help them, NGOs (Non-Goverment Organizations) will pay part of their rent. The houses might be many, but they are clearly not enough to house everyone. The solution to that is the second option, which is the construction of temporary housing in empty spaces, mostly on the outside of the city. -
Entrepreneurship that can be developed
One of the challenges that will appear after they settle is how they will be able to make a living. Since Kozani's economy depends mostly on electricity production, many of the refugees could work in power plants. Other possible jobs local to the area include the farming of saffron and fruits, production of wine, mineral extraction from quarries, aka jobs that require a lot of manpower but do not have enough. Some more general occupations, like working at restaurants, are also an option. -
Ways the school can help
When the eventually refugees arrive, we need to find some ways that we, as a school, can help them. We can teach greek to the children refugees, but also to any adults that might need it. In addition, we could organize events, like bazaars, charity events and fundraisers, to raise money and get other essential, everyday items that they might need, but also to raise awareness for what they are going through. Donating old clothes, shoes and school or house supplies and items is another option. -
Potential benefits for the local community
This choice to help rehabilitate the refugees that are in dire need is not only beneficial for them, but also for us as a whole. The local economy will definitely be boosted, which is very needed, and the manpower needed will now be enough. On an ethical level, the people of our town will learn how to respect other cultures and countries, but they will also be exposed to revolutionary ideas and techniques from the refugees' culture that will change the way we think for the better.