Every 5th of October, International Teachers’ Day is celebrated, a day to recognise the fundamental work of those who teach and guide future generations. Teachers are the pillars on which the future of generations to come is built. They have the power to change lives, open minds and provide the necessary tools for young people to face the challenges of tomorrow. But for teachers to exercise that transformative power, it is essential that they have adequate support: continuous training, access to new methodologies, and the use of technologies that allow them to be at the forefront of education.
Sub-Saharan Africa is the region facing the most serious challenges. According to UNESCO data, although between 2020 and 2024 preschool education saw a modest increase in the number of trained teachers (from 54% to 58%), primary and secondary education suffered sharp declines, from 77% to 73% of trained teachers and from 78% to 66%, respectively. In Latin America and the Caribbean, the qualification of primary school teachers fell from 78% to 75%.
Today, ProFuturo, the educational innovation programme with technology from Fundación Telefónica and Fundación ‘la Caixa’, highlights some testimonials from our teachers that reflect how teacher training transforms teaching and prepares students for a better future. These are stories of committed, dedicated teachers who, with the right support, are able to bring about tangible change in their classrooms and communities.
Jeian Mae (Philippines)
In Manila, Philippines, teacher Jeian Mae has made a significant difference in the lives of her students, especially Nicole, a young woman who dreams of becoming a flight attendant. With the support of the training she receives through ProFuturo, Jeian Mae has adopted active methodologies and digital tools that not only enrich her classes but also open up new possibilities for her students.
Pedro Medina (Colombia)
Pedro Medina, a Colombian teacher with a hearing impairment, uses his personal experience to ensure that his students with disabilities have access to inclusive education. Through the ProFuturo programme, he has implemented adapted teaching strategies and promoted awareness in his educational community.
Camilo Federico Schmidt (Uruguay)
This Uruguayan teacher has demonstrated how innovation in teaching can transform subjects that are often perceived as difficult or distant from everyday life. Through projects that apply mathematics to real-life situations, Camilo has enabled his students not only to understand mathematical concepts, but also to apply them in practical ways, fostering critical thinking and problem solving.
Elizabeth Carhuamaca (Peru)
In Peru, Elizabeth has dedicated her career to breaking down gender barriers in the field of science. In her work with students, mostly girls, she has shown that science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are not just for boys. In this way, the teacher has created a space in which girls explore and develop important skills for the future, challenging traditional stereotypes and promoting equal opportunities.
These impactful stories are not isolated or exceptional, but rather a sample of the work carried out by thousands of teachers around the world. Each of them, with their commitment, creativity and use of new tools, contributes to transforming education.
ProFuturo continues to support these teachers, providing them with the necessary skills to bring about real change in their classrooms and communities. On this International Teachers’ Day, we celebrate the tireless work of those who, every day, demonstrate that education is fundamental to a more just and equitable future.
