Indian Teacher Rouble Nagi Wins Global Teacher Prize 2026 at World Government Summit: In a moment of immense pride for India, educator and social reformer Rouble Nagi has won the prestigious Global Teacher Prize 2026, receiving the USD 1 million award at the World Government Summit in Dubai.
The award was presented during the summit by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marking the tenth edition of the Global Teacher Prize, an internationally acclaimed honour presented by GEMS Education.
Recognising Innovation in Education Through Art
Rouble Nagi was honoured for her groundbreaking work in transforming neglected and abandoned walls into interactive educational murals, popularly known as “living walls of learning.” These murals teach basic literacy, numeracy, public health, environmental awareness, and social values, turning public spaces into open-air classrooms.
Over the past two decades, her innovative approach has helped integrate more than one million children into formal education, using art as a powerful and inclusive learning tool. She was selected from over 5,000 nominations across 139 countries, highlighting the global impact of her work.
Empowering Communities Across India
Through the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she has established more than 800 educational centres across India, reaching over 100 low-income communities and villages. These centres provide safe, inspiring, and child-friendly spaces where out-of-school children can begin structured learning and transition back into mainstream education.
In addition to academic support, the centres offer remedial education, psychosocial assistance, life skills training, and creative engagement for children already enrolled in schools, strengthening long-term educational outcomes.
A Scalable Model for Lasting Impact
Central to Nagi’s mission is direct engagement. She travels extensively across India, mentoring teachers, training volunteers, and working hands-on with children. To date, she has trained over 600 teachers and volunteers, creating a scalable, community-driven education model that addresses not only academic gaps but also social and economic challenges.
Her programmes have achieved remarkable results, reducing school dropout rates by more than 50 percent and significantly improving student retention and learning continuity.
Future Vision: Skills and Digital Literacy
Rouble Nagi announced that she plans to use the Global Teacher Prize money to establish a vocational institute that will offer free professional skills training and digital literacy programmes. The initiative aims to transform life opportunities for millions of underprivileged youth, bridging the gap between education and employability.
The Global Teacher Prize is organised by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with UNESCO and presented annually by GEMS Education at the World Government Summit. The award recognises exceptional educators who have made outstanding contributions to the profession and demonstrated innovation, impact, and leadership in education worldwide.
Rouble Nagi’s achievement stands as a powerful testament to how creativity, compassion, and commitment can reshape education and change lives at scale.
