BELTA-UIU-THT Teacher Development Conference 2026
- United International University
BELTA-UIU-THT 20th Teacher Development Conference 2026
Cultivating Community in Language Education
23–24 October 2026 | Virtual and Onsite | Dhaka, Bangladesh
The Bangladesh English Language Teachers Association (BELTA) is delighted to announce the 20th Teacher Development Conference 2026, under the theme “Cultivating Community in Language Education.”
This two-day professional development event, organised in partnership with United International University (UIU) and Teachers Helping Teachers (THT), brings together educators, teacher trainers, language teaching professionals, and international facilitators to explore innovative teaching practices, exchange experiences, and strengthen professional communities.
The conference will feature a combination of virtual and onsite sessions, providing participants with opportunities to learn from distinguished international educators and engage in meaningful professional dialogue.
With a particular emphasis on collaboration, professional growth, and community building, this year's conference aims to inspire English language teachers to rethink classroom practices, share effective teaching strategies, and develop sustainable professional networks.
Conference Theme: Cultivating Community in Language Education
Effective language education extends beyond textbooks, examinations, and classroom instruction. It flourishes when teachers and learners work together, exchange ideas, respect diverse perspectives, and establish supportive learning communities.
The theme “Cultivating Community in Language Education” highlights the importance of creating inclusive, collaborative, and engaging environments in which teachers and learners can thrive.
The conference will provide opportunities for participants to reflect on how professional communities can contribute to teaching excellence, learner engagement, and the continuing development of English language education.
Participants will be encouraged to consider how collaboration, mutual support, and shared professional experiences can strengthen teaching practices and create meaningful learning opportunities.
Conference Objectives
The conference seeks to:
-
Promote continuous professional development among English language teachers and educators.
-
Encourage the exchange of innovative teaching approaches, practical classroom strategies, and professional experiences.
-
Strengthen collaboration and networking among teachers, teacher educators, and educational institutions.
-
Explore the significance of community building in creating inclusive and supportive language learning environments.
-
Provide opportunities for participants to interact with experienced international facilitators.
-
Support reflective teaching practices and encourage educators to respond creatively to contemporary classroom challenges.
-
Foster long-term professional relationships and a culture of collaborative learning.
Meet Our International Facilitators
The conference will feature distinguished educators and teacher development specialists who will share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives through onsite and online sessions.
Onsite Facilitators
Participants attending the onsite conference will have the opportunity to engage with the following facilitators:
-
Dr. Patrick Dougherty
-
Dr. Anne McLellan Howard
-
Dr. Christopher Johnson
-
Dr. Josh Norman
-
Dr. Cecilia Silva
These facilitators will contribute to professional learning and discussion, bringing international perspectives and teaching experiences to the conference.
Online Facilitators
The virtual component of the conference will feature:
-
Dr. Patrick Dougherty
-
Dr. Erin Mikulec
-
Andy Rushton-sensei
-
Dr. Marian Wang
The online sessions will allow participants to benefit from international perspectives on teaching, learning, professional development, and educational collaboration.
Together, the onsite and online facilitators will contribute to a dynamic learning experience designed to encourage reflection, dialogue, and professional growth.
Conference Schedule and Format
The conference will take place over two days, combining virtual engagement with face-to-face professional interaction.
Day 1: Friday, 23 October 2026 — Virtual Conference
The first day will be conducted online, offering participants opportunities to engage with international facilitators and explore professional development ideas through virtual sessions.
Day 2: Saturday, 24 October 2026 — Onsite Conference
The second day will take place at United International University, Dhaka, where participants will engage with onsite facilitators and fellow educators in a collaborative professional learning environment.
Conference Time: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Onsite Venue: United International University (UIU), United City, Madani Avenue, Badda, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh.
Who Should Attend?
The conference is particularly relevant to:
-
English language teachers working in schools, colleges, and universities.
-
English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) practitioners.
-
Teacher educators, trainers, and academic mentors.
-
Researchers and postgraduate students interested in English language teaching and applied linguistics.
-
Education professionals interested in innovative pedagogy, professional networking, and collaborative learning.
-
Student teachers and aspiring language educators seeking opportunities for professional growth.
Whether you are an experienced educator or at an early stage of your teaching career, the conference offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and reflect on your professional practice.
Why Participate?
Learn from international educators
Engage with experienced facilitators and explore diverse perspectives on language teaching and teacher development.
Enhance your professional knowledge
Discover ideas and approaches that can support your classroom teaching, professional reflection, and continuing development.
Build professional connections
Meet fellow educators, exchange experiences, and strengthen relationships within the wider English language teaching community.
Explore collaborative teaching practices
Reflect on the value of community, participation, and shared learning in creating positive educational experiences.
Become part of a professional learning community
Connect with educators committed to improving language education through cooperation, dialogue, and mutual support.
Registration Information
Registration Fee: BDT 510
Available Seats: Only 100
Registration Basis: First Come, First Served
As the number of available seats is limited, interested participants are encouraged to complete their registration as early as possible.
To register, please scan the QR code provided on the official conference poster and follow the registration instructions.
Certificates will be awarded to registered participants.