By: Hafizur Rahman
The Mayyu Youth Leadership Institute (MYLI) has launched a transformative initiative to address the critical shortage of qualified teachers in the Rohingya refugee camps. The Rohingya Teacher Skills Development Project is designed to enhance the quality of education by equipping untrained Rohingya teachers with essential teaching skills, modern methodologies, and effective classroom management techniques.
With limited access to formal education and a lack of trained educators, Rohingya children and youth have long been deprived of quality education. This initiative aims to fill that gap by empowering teachers to create a positive and inclusive learning environment, ultimately improving educational outcomes for their students. Despite the challenges faced by NGOs and restrictive policies within the camps, MYLI remains committed to providing accessible, high-quality education through skill development and training programs.
Training Objectives
The Effective Teacher Training Course is focused on enabling Rohingya teachers to adopt a student-centered approach, understand cognitive development, and implement innovative teaching methods. Participants learn key teaching theories, develop classroom management skills, and create engaging learning environments that address diverse learning needs. This comprehensive approach helps teachers foster better student engagement and deliver higher-quality education, thereby contributing to the overall educational upliftment of Rohingya children and youth.
Training Overview
Each training batch accommodates 20 teachers, with sessions held monthly. The one-month course includes both online classes and practical demonstrations, ensuring participants gain a thorough understanding of effective teaching practices. The program’s annual target is to train 240 teachers, with two batches already completed and preparations underway for the third batch, set to begin in January 2025.
Akter Hossain (24), a recent graduate of the program, shared his experience:
“If you aspire to become an ideal and favorite teacher for your students in our community, this training is for you. It equips you with the necessary skills and qualities to excel as an expert teacher.”
Another teacher currently attending the weekly sessions added:
“Before this training, I had no knowledge of teaching methodologies or how to inspire my students effectively. Now, I am learning valuable skills that will help me become a better teacher and support my students meaningfully. I hope this program continues to guide me and enhance my ability to inspire the next generation.”
Meet the Trainer
King Maung, the lead trainer, is dedicated to empowering Rohingya teachers through this program. His mission is to enhance their professional skills and inspire them to become effective educators within their community. Alongside his team, he ensures that participants receive comprehensive training, equipping them with the tools needed to excel in their roles.
“Our goal is to uplift the educational standards in the camps and create a lasting impact on the community,” King Maung explained.
Broader MYLI Initiatives
MYLI has been actively working to empower the Rohingya community through skill development and capacity-building programs. In addition to the Effective Teacher Training Course, the institute has successfully completed:
- Three batches of the Basic Public Speaking and Presentation Course, with the fourth batch underway.
- Four batches of Leadership Theory and Practice Training.
Looking ahead, MYLI plans to offer free public speaking and presentation training specifically for young Rohingya content creators in January 2025.
Through its ongoing efforts, MYLI is fostering leadership, education, and personal development among Rohingya youth and educators, contributing to a brighter future for the entire community.
