Indian Educator Rouble Nagi Wins $1 Million Global Teacher Prize for Transforming Learning in Slums

New Delhi | 5 Feb 2026 Indian teacher and social activist Rouble Nagi has won the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize for her remarkable work in bringing education to underprivileged children across the country. Known for setting up hundreds of learning centres and turning slum walls into classrooms through educational murals, Nagi received the award at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. Nagi accepted the honour in the United Arab Emirates, where global leaders gather each year to discuss development and innovation. Through the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she has established more than 800 learning centres across India. These centres focus on helping children who have never attended school while also supporting those already enrolled. Her colourful wall paintings teach subjects like literacy, science, maths and history in simple, visual ways. The Global Teacher Prize is awarded by the Varkey Foundation, founded by Sunny Varkey, who also started GEMS Education, a major private school network operating in several countries including Egypt, Qatar and the UAE. Nagi said she plans to use the prize money to build an institute that will provide free vocational training to those in need. Rouble Nagi is the 10th teacher to receive the award since it was launched in 2015. Previous winners include educators from Kenya, Palestine, Canada and Saudi Arabia, each recognised for their work with marginalised communities. Her win adds another powerful story to the list, highlighting how creativity and dedication can open the doors of education to those who need it most. From Slum Walls to Global Stage: Indian Teacher Wins $1 Million Global Teacher Prize Indian teacher and social activist Rouble Nagi has won the $1 million Global Teacher Prize for her inspiring work in bringing education to children who are often left behind. She received the award at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, a global event attended by leaders from many countries. Through her Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she has set up more than 800 learning centres across India. These centres help children who have never gone to school and also support those who are already studying. Along with this, she paints colourful murals on slum walls to teach lessons in reading, science, maths and history in a simple and visual way. The award is given by the Varkey Foundation, started by Sunny Varkey, the founder of GEMS Education. Nagi plans to use the prize money to build an institute that will offer free vocational training, helping young people gain skills for a better future. Rouble Nagi is the 10th teacher to receive this honour since the prize began in 2015. Past winners have come from countries like Kenya, Palestine, Canada and Saudi Arabia. Her achievement shows how creative ideas and strong commitment can change lives through education.