JICA Volunteer Supports Future Teachers through Mathematics Training at Milne Bay Teachers

Papua New Guinea is currently undergoing an important education reform that places greater emphasis on students’ understanding and learning achievements. To successfully implement this new approach, developing teachers who can effectively support student learning in the classroom has become increasingly important.

In line with this effort, a newly established teachers college in Milne Bay Province has begun using teacher-training manuals developed through JICA’s STEPMAS Project. At the same time, both lecturers and student teachers have expressed a desire to learn more practical ways of applying these new teaching approaches in actual classrooms.

To respond to this need, JICA Volunteer Mr. Muragishi, who is working at a primary school in Alotau, Milne Bay Province, conducted a two-day mathematics education training at Milne Bay Teachers College on 6 and 7 July 2026. The training was attended by 57 student teachers and 4 lecturers.

The students attending the teachers college will eventually teach in primary schools across Papua New Guinea. Supporting one future teacher therefore has the potential to benefit many children throughout their teaching career.

Through his daily work in primary schools, Mr. Muragishi has gained a clear understanding of the challenges faced by teachers in the classroom. Drawing on this experience, he introduced practical teaching techniques and effective ways to use learning materials that student teachers can apply in their future careers. During the demonstration lesson, participants observed how a teacher can continuously check student understanding and adapt teaching accordingly, helping them develop a clearer picture of effective classroom practice.

To prepare for the training, Mr. Muragishi worked closely with college lecturers to ensure that the content addressed the needs of both students and staff. The large number of questions raised after the sessions reflected the participants’ enthusiasm for learning. Building on this success, Mr. Muragishi plans to collaborate with other education volunteers to provide additional training in both mathematics and science.

Supporting teachers colleges means supporting the teachers of tomorrow. By strengthening the skills of future teachers, initiatives like this can contribute to better learning opportunities for children throughout Papua New Guinea.

This training demonstrated how JICA Volunteers are working alongside local educational institutions to help develop the next generation of teachers and support the improvement of education across the country.