From Uncertainty to Confidence: How Teacher Training Transformed a Volunteer Teacher in Unity State

• Jul 31, 2026

Raan Kulang is a volunteer teacher in Unity State whose journey reflects the transformative power of teacher training and mentorship. After completing his secondary education in 2022, he stepped into the classroom with a strong commitment to supporting children in his community. However, like many volunteer teachers, he had little formal preparation for the profession. Raan is one of more than 40 volunteer teachers supporting secondary education in Unity State without professional teaching qualifications.

In his early days as a teacher, Raan faced significant challenges. He often entered the classroom without structured lesson plans and struggled to manage student behaviour effectively. Lessons were not always well organized, making it difficult to keep learners focused and engaged. Although he was dedicated to helping his students succeed, he lacked the practical skills and confidence needed to deliver quality instruction.

Everything began to change when Raan participated in a teacher training programme. In August 2024, he joined 138 other teachers in a training initiative designed to strengthen teaching practices, classroom management, and lesson planning skills. The programme provided practical tools and strategies that helped teachers create more effective and engaging learning environments.

Raan’s professional growth continued through Teacher Learning Circles, where experienced educators offered mentorship, guidance, and peer support. These regular learning exchanges gave him opportunities to reflect on his teaching, share experiences, and learn from others.

Equipped with new knowledge and skills, Raan transformed his approach to teaching. He began preparing detailed lesson plans, organizing his classroom more effectively, and adopting interactive, learner-centred teaching methods. The impact was soon visible. Students became more attentive and actively participated in lessons. Their academic performance improved, and they demonstrated greater confidence in completing assignments and engaging in classroom activities.

“I am now more confident in my work as a teacher,” Raan shares. “The training and support have helped me understand how to teach better and support my learners.”

Today, Raan is not only a more effective teacher but also a source of inspiration to his colleagues. He is increasingly recognized as a role model among volunteer teachers in his school. Motivated by the support he has received, he is committed to sharing his knowledge and experience with fellow teachers who have not yet had similar training opportunities.

Raan’s story highlights the critical role that teacher development plays in improving education outcomes. It demonstrates how targeted training, ongoing mentorship, and peer support can build teachers’ confidence, strengthen classroom practice, and create better learning opportunities for children. In communities affected by crisis, investing in teachers like Raan is helping to build a stronger and more resilient education system for the future.