Indian teacher wins $1 million Global Teacher Prize 2026 in UAE

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Indian teacher wins $1 million Global Teacher Prize 2026 in UAE

February 6, 2026

DUBAI,— An Indian teacher and social activist who has built hundreds of learning centers and painted educational murals in slums has won the $1 million Global Teacher Prize.

Rouble Nagi received the award Thursday at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, an annual event that draws leaders from around the world.

Her Rouble Nagi Art Foundation has created more than 800 learning centers across India. The centers help children who have never attended school begin formal education and provide support for those already enrolled.

She also creates colorful murals on walls that introduce children to reading, mathematics, science, and historical topics.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nagi said the prize is both a personal honor and recognition for India. She began her work 24 years ago with 30 children in a small workshop. Today, her programs have reached more than one million children.

Nagi said her work has been a constant motivation to bring education to every child in India. She added that seeing her childhood dream of schooling for all children take shape is deeply rewarding.

The Varkey Foundation presents the Global Teacher Prize each year to honor outstanding educators worldwide.

Sunny Varkey, the foundation’s founder, also established GEMS Education, a private school network with locations in Egypt, Qatar, and the UAE.

Sunny Varkey said Nagi embodies the qualities of an exceptional teacher, including creativity, courage, and care for her students. He added that her efforts have improved the lives of children and reinforced communities.

Nagi plans to use the $1 million award to build an institute that will provide free vocational training.

Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, said the prize highlights the impact teachers have.

She noted that educators like Nagi guide children into school and shape the future of their lives through dedication and patience.

Nagi is the 10th recipient of the Global Teacher Prize, first awarded in 2015. Previous winners include a Kenyan teacher who donated most of his salary to the poor, a Palestinian teacher focused on non-violence, and a Canadian educator working with Inuit students in a remote Arctic village.

Last year’s winner was Saudi teacher Mansour al-Mansour, recognized for helping underprivileged children.

GEMS Education, formally known as Global Education Management Systems, is among the largest operators of private schools worldwide. Its growth reflects Dubai’s reliance on private schools to educate children of foreign workers.

(With files from AP)