Canadian Orientation Abroad

Training Materials

Facts and Figures

Engagement

ABOUT THE CANADIAN ORIENTATION ABROAD PROGRAMME

The Canadian Orientation Abroad (COA) programme is a global refugee orientation initiative funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and implemented worldwide by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Since 1998, IOM has been providing information and orientation sessions to refugees aged 13 and above before their departure to Canada. The main objective of the programme is to increase the integration outcomes of refugees resettling to Canada by supporting their pre-departure preparation.

"It [the COA session] gave me direction and comfort, and that is exactly what I needed."

- Former COA participant in Jordan, 2019
"Learning that there are a number of supports for my daughter and myself, is so assuring. My worries were reduced, and I have gained a realistic perception on how to handle the challenges coming my way. I am hopeful for the brighter future and determined to do my level best."

- Former COA participant in Malaysia, 2019
"On the first day, I was nervous about what would be asked of me, but as soon as the facilitator shared the objectives of COA, I relaxed and felt at peace. The facilitator encouraged everyone to ask questions and share any concerns. Different methods of training like lecture, flash cards, videos and group activities made me get fully involved in the session."

- Former COA participant in Pakistan, 2019
"I learned that Canada has many opportunities for serious seekers. I was kind of relieved when we discussed the culture shock as it directly related to my struggles in Lebanon. I felt I will be OK knowing that it is a normal adaptation process for any migrant and that I could seek help and support once in Canada."

- Former COA participant in Lebanon, 2019
"My fears of starting life in Quebec and learning the French language disappeared when I learned about free French classes for adults and how teachers help students in learning the language fast with other students in schools. These three days were full of joy, gaining knowledge, and help to understand and know about life in Canada."

- Former COA participant in Pakistan, 2020

Using an interactive delivery model, COA sessions provide relevant, accurate, and timely information and orientation on targeted topics such as travel, initial settlement, and in-Canada services.

Over 320,000 individuals have benefited from the programme since 1998
Training is 15 hours, spread over 3 days; with adult and youth-focused curricula
In-person group sessions have an average of 25 participants
Refugees age 13 and over resettling to Canada are eligible
Supports available include interpretation, childminding, meals, transportation and accommodation grants
There are 14 permanent COA training locations: Ecuador, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Pakistan, Sudan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Türkiye, and Uganda
Many permanent COA training locations have regional functions and deliver in-person mobile training sessions in other countries as well as remote sessions using virtual or telephonic modalities
COA is conducted in over 100 countries worldwide, annually

The COA programme is based on an interactive delivery model which draws from the wealth of experience of participants, ensures content is accessible to all learning profiles, and fosters active participation. A mix of printed materials and activities are used in order to help participants engage in learning and better retain information. COA training materials are available in 16 languages and a wide variety of visual aids are used for those who may not read in their mother tongue.