UNESCO Chair on Teacher Professional Development using Lesson Study

Following an agreement signed between UNESCO and the University of Malta, a UNESCO Chair on Teacher Professional Development using Lesson Study has been established. This Chair will be held for a term of four years by Dr James Calleja who is an active council member of the World Association of Lesson Studies. This milestone strengthens the University of Malta’s role and Dr Calleja’s work on lesson study as it advances innovative and equitable approaches to teacher professional learning at national and international levels.

Building on the work of the Collaborative Lesson Study Malta programme, and its ongoing research and partnerships in Malta, the Chair will expand collaboration with the World Association of Lesson Studies, with the Directorate for STEM and VET programmes in Malta, and with schools in Norway and South Africa.

These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of teaching through the improvement of student learning, support school leaders, and reduce inequalities in access to high-quality professional learning – particularly in under-resourced contexts. Through international networks, digital platforms and cross-country exchanges, the Chair will foster knowledge sharing, capacity building, and culturally responsive pedagogical innovation.

Planned activities include the development of open-access professional learning resources, international lesson study networks, research publications, policy briefs, and virtual mentoring opportunities for educators. The Chair will also contribute to UNESCO’s priorities in quality education, digital transformation, and equity, and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 on inclusive and equitable education.

Further updates on activities and opportunities for collaboration will be shared soon.