Two representatives for IOM Oslo have been in Syria the last few weeks to give this course to refugees both residing in Damascus and in al-Tanf. Al-Tanf refugee camp is situated between the Syrian and the Iraqi border, 250 km east of Damascus. Around 800 refugees have lived in the camp at all time, in tents erected between a highway and a six meter high concrete wall.
The primary objective of the programme has been to promote the smooth integration of the refugees to the Norwegian society by preparing them for arriving in Norway, addressing unrealistic expectations and limiting the cultural shock.
The IOM also provides the receiving Norwegian municipalities with relevant and current information about the resettling of refugees and their situation prior to their arrival to Norway.
All participants received diplomas after completing the programme. Embassy staff were present at the ceremony in al-Tanf to welcome the participants to Norway .