A strong education system rests largely on one foundation: good teachers. Keeping this in mind, the Punjab government launched an ambitious programme to train government school teachers at some of the country’s leading institutions and select centres abroad. The objective was clear—better-trained teachers would automatically translate into better learning outcomes for students.
The impact of this initiative is now visible in classrooms across the state.
Where are Punjab’s teachers being trained?
Under the programme, teachers have been sent to premier institutions in India and overseas. These include the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), IITs, reputed teacher training centres, and international universities in countries such as Singapore, Finland, the United Kingdom and the United States.
These institutions are known for their focus on innovative pedagogy, modern evaluation techniques and student-focused learning methods.
How many teachers have benefited?
Several batches of teachers from government schools across Punjab have already undergone training. Educators from subjects like science, mathematics, English, social science and even school leadership have taken part.
Each batch returns with new teaching ideas, updated tools and a renewed enthusiasm for classroom learning.
What has changed for students?
Students are among the biggest beneficiaries of the programme. Teachers returning from training are increasingly moving away from rote learning and adopting interactive teaching methods.
Classrooms now see more discussions, activities and real-life examples. Digital tools are being used more frequently, and greater emphasis is being placed on concept clarity rather than memorisation.
“Earlier, we only copied notes,” a student said. “Now teachers explain topics with activities and examples, which makes learning easier.”
Another student added, “Classes are more interesting now. Teachers encourage us to speak and take part.”
What do teachers say?
Teachers who have undergone training say the exposure has changed their approach to teaching. One government school teacher who attended a programme abroad said the experience helped them understand how students are taught in other countries.
“We learned how to make lessons engaging. I now use group work, presentations and classroom discussions regularly,” the teacher said.
Another educator noted that the training boosted their confidence. “We feel proud that we can bring global teaching practices into our classrooms in Punjab,” the teacher said.
Impact on government schools
The programme is also helping government schools bridge the gap with private institutions. Improved teaching standards have led to better exam results, increased student confidence, stronger performance in competitive exams and a noticeable drop in dropout rates.
Parents, too, are beginning to show renewed trust in government schools as they witness tangible improvements.
Chief Minister’s vision
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has repeatedly stressed that teachers form the backbone of any education system.
“If we want Punjab’s children to compete at a global level, we must first empower our teachers. That is why we are investing in world-class training for our educators,” he has said, adding that the initiative should be seen as an investment in the state’s future rather than an expense.
A silent change in classrooms
While the teacher training programme may not grab headlines every day, it is steadily transforming classrooms across Punjab. Teaching methods are improving, student engagement is rising and government schools are slowly regaining public confidence.
By strengthening its teachers, Punjab is quietly strengthening its entire education system.