Ponsiano Ngondwe (Pons) is a social work doctoral student at the College of Social Work. Pons’ research interests focus on inclusive education for vulnerable populations such as persons with disabilities, especially refugee children. Pons’ other interests include empowering vulnerable populations: refugees, street families, and women in informal settlements. Pons holds an MSW from Boston College and a Master of Arts in Migration Theology from Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines. Pons has previously worked with international agencies such as Fe y Alegria Eastern Africa & Jesuit Refugee Service.

AREAS OF FOCUS

• Disabilities and vulnerabilities in society
• Education at the margins
• Forced Migration
• Policies and impacts on refugees’ rights
• Safeguarding
• HIV/AIDS
• Gender-Based Violence
• Family support systems
• Childcare and single-headed family
• Empowerment of vulnerable populations

EDUCATION

• MSW, 2023, Boston College School of Social Work; Social Work
• MA, 2017, Ateneo de Manila University; Pastoral Theology
• BA, 2015, Hekima University College; Theology
• BA, 2009 Arrive College; Philosophy