Cambridge launches Pre-Service Teacher TrainingProgramme with Vishwakarma University

The skill-based programme prepares educators for
dynamic future-ready classrooms

24^th February 2025, Pune – Cambridge University Press & Assessment has developed a pre-service professional development programme for teachers that will be offered by Pune-based Vishwakarma University, as part of its commitment to transforming societies through education. The Pre-Service Teacher Training Programme was officially launched by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Cambridge and Vishwakarma University on 18 February. This marks the first of several new partnerships being planned by Cambridge to enhance its pre-service training offer for teachers and complement Cambridge’s existing professional development courses.

The short-certificated (three to four months) course, designed for fresh B.Ed graduates and aspiring educators,  will focus on enhancing capacity and capability building. Internship opportunities will also be offered as part of the course.

The UNESCO-Teacher Task Force’s global report on teachers reveals an urgent need for 44 million primary and secondary teachers worldwide by 2030.  The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions an ambitious transformation of India’s educational system where innovative pedagogical strategies, new technologies, and a more holistic and competency-based approach to learning is the key.

Designed in line with NEP 2020 and research-based best practices, the certified course launched on 18 February will prepare new teachers for diverse and dynamic classrooms. It will provide participants with practical exposure and a robust foundation in pedagogy, ultimately benefiting the classrooms of tomorrow.

Arun Rajamani, Managing Director of Cambridge University Press & Assessment, South Asia, said: “At Cambridge, we believe the future of education lies in empowering educators, and investing in teachers is crucial for better learning outcomes. Our Pre-Service Teacher Training Programme is designed to equip educators with the tools to nurture enquiry-based learning, critical thinking, socio-emotional learning, and use of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence to support personalised learning. Cambridge has been consistently offering professional development programmes, which also aligns with the vision of NEP 2020, and this initiative is another step towards further enhancing teacher capabilities.”

Bharat Agarwal, President of Vishwakarma University, stated: “This collaboration with Cambridge University Press & Assessment provides a unique opportunity for aspiring teachers to gain exposure to best practices in teaching and learning. Such initiatives contribute significantly to the professional development of teachers and the enhancement of primary and secondary education standards.”

The course aims to offer a pathway to other teacher training programmes at a national and international level. The key areas to be covered includes pedagogical skills and child development, lesson planning and assessment strategies, classroom management and student engagement, integrating technology and AI in teaching and holistic teacher role focusing on social-emotional learning and parent-community involvement. The new programme aligns with the dynamic needs of the educational landscape, ensuring that pre-service teachers are equipped to meet contemporary challenges in education.