Learning to teach, teaching for learning: Empowering teachers in Cambodia through Continuous Professional Development

In Puok District, about an hour from Siem Reap city, Chhern Lisa teaches four Grade 4 subjects at Athipadei Primary School. She is one of nearly 1,300 primary school teachers participating in Cambodia’s national Continuous Professional Development (CPD) system through the support of UNESCO under the Strengthening Teacher Education Programmes in Cambodia (STEPCam) with a total investment of USD $27.02 million from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). 

Earlier in her career, access to professional training was limited. Opportunities were often short, irregular, and not officially recognised, leaving teachers with few chances to strengthen their skills. Today, the CPD system offers nearly 50 accredited courses nationwide. Through the course on Methodology for Teaching Science for Upper Primary Grades, Lisa discovered hands-on learning approaches that encourage collaboration and creativity, ideas that helped her reimagine how her students could learn.

Upon completing the course, Lisa earned CPD credits officially recorded in her professional profile, as recognition that supports her career progression. More importantly, the changes are visible in her classroom. Students participate more actively and show greater confidence in learning.

“I’ve learned and practised the engagement activities and teaching methodologies in my classroom and improved my confidence in teaching.” ~ Chhern Lisa

The initiative reflects Cambodia’s growing commitment to supporting teachers as lifelong learners. Today, Lisa continues her professional growth through another course focused on ICT in education. For her students, these changes mean more opportunities to explore, learn, and believe in their own potential.

When teachers grow, students grow with them.