Access to education in remote areas of Myanmar, including at Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, is a challenge. To address this, the Karen Teacher Training College (KTTC) was established to provide qualified teacher training for schools across Karen State.
“This education college is significant for the entire Karen nation. It is essential,” Naw Htee Khu, a teacher at the KTTC in Karen National Union (KNU) Brigade 5, told DVB.
The KTTC was founded in Mutraw (Hpapun) District in Karen National Union (KNU) Brigade 5 territory in 2004. It was created through the partnership of the Karen Teacher Working Group (KTWG) and the Karen Education and Culture Department (KECD) to promote education and learning initiatives in the region.
“It was established to ensure a steady and permanent supply of teachers. Each year, the number of students enrolling here continues to grow,” added Naw Htee Khu.
There are three KTTC campuses with the other two located in Karen State’s Dooplaya District and Bago Region’s Toungoo District located in KNU Brigades 6 and 2. The KTTC teacher training program lasts for two years, after which they earn a certificate issued by the KTWG.
A diploma is awarded after three years of practical teaching in-the-field. For the 2025–2026 academic year, 130 students are enrolled at the KTTC, which ensures that the curriculum remains responsive to the needs of local communities across KNU-controlled territory in Karen, Bago and Tanintharyi regions.
