At the recent world-class prize, Rouble Nagi who received the 2026 Prize for Good Education recognizes her contribution to education internationally. She is the recipient of the one million-dollar prize, which was awarded at the World Government Summit in Dubai, presented by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This occasion recognizes not just her personal accomplishments, but also celebrates the role that teachers play in nation-building.
The Global Teacher Prize is among the most revered prizes in education. The award is created to recognise outstanding teachers who contribute meaningfully to their communities and is funded by GEMS Education; it has now reached its tenth edition. Every year, one teacher from anywhere in the world is named a winner who has demonstrated innovative, focused and impactful teaching in the classroom and beyond. Not only is winning this prize a personal success, it also represents the combined efforts of educators fighting the odds in challenging circumstances to inspire students to succeed. The prize further serves as a reminder that teaching is one of the most important professions in shaping the future, motivating teachers to work towards it.
Rouble Nagi is not just a teacher but also an activist and artist. She specializes in education, art and community development. With her efforts, she has connected thousands of children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Her “Misaal Mumbai” project is one of her most well-known projects, through which she created art in slums and villages and helped educate, cultivate, and uplift people. By painting walls, making spaces lively, and instilling opportunities to learn, she provided children and families with dignity and hope. She’s pioneering this by fusing innovative solutions with social conscience, so her work stands out globally.
The award ceremony took place at the World Government Summit in Dubai, where world leaders and innovators gather to create solutions to the challenges of governance and development. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honored Rouble Nagi at the event. That moment was heralded not just by the Indian community, but by educators globally. Being awarded in such an esteemed environment gave her achievement even more significance.
What is important about Rouble Nagi’s work is that it goes beyond traditional teaching. Education should remain universal for all, regardless of social or economic status, she has said. By combining art, creativity and learning, she has designed models that could be replicated worldwide. Her projects have also helped children stay in school, reduced dropout rates, and given families a reason to value education. She has done so by empowering women and encouraging skill development, helping communities evolve together.
India has felt proud to have won the Global Teacher Prize. This is proof that Indian educators are shaping change, making a difference around the world and participating in global discussions about education. Receiving praise from teachers across the country, Rouble Nagi’s success serves as encouragement to other teachers — demonstrating that sheer commitment and creativity can lead to global recognition. Internationally, her win is a reminder that creative approaches are key in education. In a world grappling with issues such as inequality, poverty, and barriers to quality schooling, teachers stand as catalysts for change, as illustrated by her work.
Rouble Nagi’s win has been widely celebrated. There were messages of congratulations from students, teachers and leaders all over social media. Many praised her for drawing attention to the role of teachers and showing how education can change lives. Her win has also led to debate over whether more support should be given to teachers, increased funding for schools, and innovation in teaching methods.
A number of lessons learned:
The Global Teacher Prize is not only an award but an acknowledgment of the genius of teaching and how an educator can mold a society. Her artistic works, social service to underprivileged members of society, and dedication to the power of art and education have positioned her to be a world-famous, global educational icon. The world is reminded that teachers are more than simply educators: they are leaders, creators and changemakers as she becomes our hero and one million dollar winner. Rouble Nagi’s story is a beacon of hope for education and an inspiring example of what one person can do — a great teacher, Rouble Nagi said.
