Indian educator Rouble Nagi has won the Global Teacher Prize 2026 at the World Government Summit in Dubai, receiving the one million dollar award. She was recognised for using art as a learning tool to transform neglected walls into interactive educational murals that teach reading, writing, arithmetic, public health and environmental awareness. Her work has supported the integration of more than one million children into formal education over the past two decades.
About the Award
The Global Teacher Prize is presented by GEMS Education and organised by the Varkey Foundation with UNESCO during the World Government Summit. It honours exceptional educators for outstanding contributions to teaching and learning. Nagi was selected from more than 5,000 nominations across 139 countries. The award was handed over by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Rouble Nagi’s Education Model
Through the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she has established more than 800 educational centres across India. These centres operate in over 100 low-income communities and villages. They provide safe spaces for out-of-school children to begin structured learning and return to formal education. They also offer remedial support, psychosocial assistance and creative activities for enrolled students.
Impact on Children and Teachers
Her approach is based on living walls of learning, where abandoned walls become open classrooms. She has trained more than 600 teachers and volunteers. Her programmes have reduced school dropout rates by over 50 percent and improved long-term retention. She has worked extensively across India, mentoring teachers and directly engaging with children.
Future Plans and Wider Significance
Nagi plans to use the prize money to set up a vocational institute offering free training in professional skills and digital literacy. Her work marks the role of community-based education, creative pedagogy and inclusive learning in addressing educational exclusion and improving child development outcomes.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026