Date of Graduation

Spring 5-16-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Migration Studies

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

Migration Studies

First Advisor

Amy Argenal

Abstract

This thesis examines how the relationship between limited access to education and economic opportunities contribute to the migration of young people out of this region. The qualitative research addresses two main questions: a) What challenges do young people in the Western Highlands of Guatemala face in accessing the education system and employment opportunities? And b) How does the lack of education and economic opportunities influence young people’s decision to migrate? Three focus groups were conducted with young individuals from the western highlands, and six semi-structured interviews were held with stakeholders and organizations working in this region.

The thesis concludes that the age of migrants has shifted to younger demographics compared to previous generations. It also found that young people are leaving Guatemala due to a mix of complex circumstances that includes violence, lack of education and economic opportunities and harsh realities of poverty. This thesis proposes that increased collaboration between the government and the private sector is necessary to enhance access to formal markets for underserved communities. The analysis of the interviews and focus groups shows that there is insufficient investment in programs and projects for young people in the western highlands of Guatemala. In terms of education, the current system needs to be reformed to create greater incentives from a young age and increase young people's chances of accessing formal education. Education plays a crucial role in creating a well-informed population with access to higher levels of education, which could lead to better employment opportunities and positively impact the country's formal economy.

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