More than 1,100 volunteer educators in Rohingya refugee camps are now being granted official training certificates, acknowledging their expertise and enhancing classroom instruction quality. This certification is the result of a collaborative effort between UNICEF, the Asian University for Women, the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner, and the Government of Bangladesh, as stated in a recent UNICEF press release.
“This initiative is truly remarkable. The certificates signify not just a piece of paper but empowerment. They pave the way for future generations to shape their own destinies,” remarked Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mizanur Rahman.
In the last couple of years, volunteer teachers and master trainers from Rohingya and host communities have successfully completed a comprehensive training program in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. Trained volunteer educators are essential for effective education, especially in crisis situations. This tailored program, a first in Rohingya camps, equips teachers with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to deliver the Myanmar Curriculum more efficiently.
“This certification is a significant achievement in our joint mission to ensure that every Rohingya child not only receives education but also experiences quality learning,” emphasized UNICEF Representative Stanley Gwavuya. “Investing in volunteer teachers means investing in the future of a generation that has already endured significant disruption and hardship.”
The intensive three-month program included 176 hours of training encompassing 118 modules aligned with the Myanmar Curriculum, covering subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Burmese. It featured a blend of in-person instruction, peer collaboration, and hands-on classroom practice, with a strong emphasis on inclusive and gender-sensitive teaching.
“Education is a powerful tool against oppression and inequality. However, effective and compassionate education is key to overcoming these barriers. This training program gives us optimism that educational standards within the camps can be enhanced to restore a sense of hope,” affirmed Kamal Ahmad, the founder of the Asian University for Women.
