The LBW Trust (Learning for a Better World) believes education is the pathway to a better future.
As the world continues to navigate complex refugee challenges, the UTS-LBW Trust Refugee Teacher Training Program is a beacon of hope, delivering meaningful education to refugee communities. Established to train refugee adults as educators for refugee children, this unique initiative, currently active in Indonesia, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, extends the reach of The LBW Trust’s work far beyond the classroom.
The Program’s Impact – Teaching for Change
The UTS-LBW Trust Refugee Teacher Training Program goes beyond traditional education by training teachers who pass on their skills to others. Originating in Cisarua, West Java, Indonesia, this program has now expanded to Afghanistan and Pakistan, with a mission to reach over 1,500 refugee children.
Why this program is special
While the direct number of teachers trained may seem small, the ripple effect of their knowledge impacts entire school communities. Using a “train-the-trainer” model, the program equips selected teachers with essential skills in Classroom Management, Student well-being, and Teaching English Language Learners (ELL), ultimately enhancing the quality of education across refugee schools.
Overcoming Obstacles in a Complex Landscape
Refugees face significant challenges, particularly in Indonesia, where most are Hazara from Afghanistan, living in a country that doesn’t recognise their right to stay permanently. Despite a lack of formal access to education, refugee communities have shown remarkable initiative by creating their learning centres, which now serve as hubs of education and cultural connection.
Curriculum and Achievements – Building a Foundation for Learning
Since 2016, UTS academics led by Dr Lucy Fiske have collaborated with refugee teachers, developing a curriculum that supports mental well-being, effective teaching strategies and inclusive learning approaches. Modules cover vital topics including Classroom Management, Assessment, and Teaching Practice, each tailored to address the unique needs of refugee learners and their instructors.
In 2024, 29 teachers (18 women and 11 men) from across Indonesia, Afghanistan, and Pakistan participated, all aiming to graduate in December.
Teachers’ Voices: Reflections and Feedback
Participant feedback highlights the program’s positive impact.
Yasamin, reflecting on the wellbeing module, said, “Calming the mind is the most important thing every person should do.”
Zarah appreciated the practical teaching strategies but noted a desire for a shorter module length, while Nadia expressed gratitude for a TED Talk video included in the program that opened her eyes to her students’ needs.
In response to participants’ feedback, the program team plans to add culturally relevant examples and refine modules to support teachers with varying levels of English proficiency.
Looking Forward: Expanding Possibilities in 2025
In 2025, the UTS-LBW Trust Refugee Teacher Training Program is planning to take the next step by integrating protocols for ethical AI use, conducting follow-ups with graduates to assess long-term impacts, and capturing secondary program effects.
Additionally, the in-country visit to Indonesia is critical for hands-on training and also for strengthening community connections.
The UTS-LBW Trust Refugee Teacher Training Program has become more than an educational resource; it’s a lifeline for refugee communities determined to provide quality education for their children. By investing in their teachers, we’re investing in a generation of learners who, in turn, can become agents of change in their communities.
With continued support, we’re confident that 2025 will bring even more remarkable stories of resilience, progress and success.
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Thank you,
The LBW Trust
2024: Resilience and Growth in UTS-LBW Refugee Education
The UTS-LBW Trust Refugee Teacher Training Program trains refugee educators in Indonesia, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Cisarua’s Refugee Teachers: A Step Toward Educational Equity
In 2023, Dr. Nina Burridge, Dr. Miriam Faine and Dr. Richard Walker visited refugee learning centers in Cisarua, Bogor, Indonesia,
