Rouble Nagi Honored with Global Teacher Prize 2026 for Transformative Educational Work
Mumbai-based teacher and activist Rouble Nagi has been awarded the prestigious Global Teacher Prize 2026, the world's largest prize for educators, valued at $1 million. The award was presented at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Thursday, recognizing her decade-long dedication to providing quality education to children in underprivileged communities across India.
Who is Rouble Nagi?
Rouble Nagi is a multifaceted educator and artist who has committed her career to teaching children who often lack access to formal schooling. As the founder of the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she employs art, murals, and creative techniques to make learning engaging and accessible. Her journey began approximately ten years ago in the slums of Mumbai, where she transforms walls and neglected spaces into vibrant open-air classrooms. Through colorful and interactive murals, children learn essential subjects such as literacy, numeracy, science, and history in an immersive environment.
Expanding Educational Reach and Impact
Over the years, Nagi's foundation has established more than 800 learning centers throughout India, catering to children who have never attended school and those enrolled but struggling academically. She also trains and mentors over 600 volunteer and paid educators, ensuring lessons are tailored to each child's academic level and social circumstances. Her programs are specifically designed to address challenges like poverty, child labor, early marriage, irregular attendance, and lack of basic facilities.
To overcome these obstacles, Nagi has introduced flexible schedules, practical lessons using recycled materials, and skill-based teaching methods that benefit both children and their families. Additionally, she runs the Misaal India initiative, which provides skill training for women, empowering them with financial independence and opportunities to start their own businesses.
Award Acceptance and Future Plans
Upon accepting the award, Nagi expressed that recognition based on education, compassion, consistency, and service motivates her to continue supporting marginalized children. She announced plans to use the prize money to establish an institute offering free vocational training for students, further expanding her impact on education and skill development.
Praise from Global Education Leaders
Sunny Varkey, founder of the Global Teacher Prize and GEMS Education, praised Nagi, stating she embodies "the very best of what teaching can be — courage, creativity and compassion." Francis Joseph, CEO of GEMS Education, highlighted that Nagi's influence extends beyond conventional classrooms, while Stefania Giannini, Unesco's assistant director-general for education, noted the award reaffirms a "simple truth: teachers matter."
Legacy of the Global Teacher Prize
Rouble Nagi is the tenth recipient of the Global Teacher Prize, which was launched in 2015. Past winners include educators from Kenya, Palestine, Canada, and Saudi Arabia, all recognized for their innovative and impactful work with disadvantaged students. This award underscores the global importance of dedicated educators in transforming lives and communities through education.
