This publication is the third in a series of regional thematic studies initiated by the SEA-PLM Secretariat—SEA-PLM 2019 latest evidence in basic education.

This paper highlights the diversity of the Southeast Asian teacher workforce, their classroom conditions, and their level of preparation and training upon entry to the profession. The analysis illustrates the qualification and requirements for teachers, challenges faced in the classroom, and the training provided based on SEA-PLM 2019 data.

This paper offers potential solutions to prepare teachers to improve student learning effectively. It recommends the development and implementation of policies and programs to strengthen the teacher workforce and redirect the focus to ensure teachers have supportive working conditions, and comprehensive training and professional development aligned with the teacher workforce’s needs. Furthermore, the paper also encourages investing in information and communication technologies to support teachers engaged in remote learning and strengthening teacher data and data-driven systems to support education systems to better plan for recruiting, training, and supporting the teacher workforce.