Indian educator Rouble Nagi has been awarded the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, recognising her extraordinary work in transforming education for children living in urban slums.
Rouble Nagi, a Mumbai-based teacher and social reformer, was honoured for converting neglected slum walls into colourful classrooms, using art, creativity and community engagement to bring learning to children who otherwise had little access to formal education.
Turning walls into classrooms
Through her grassroots initiatives, Nagi transformed dull, crumbling walls in slum settlements into vibrant learning spaces filled with alphabets, numbers, moral lessons and inspirational messages. These painted classrooms not only attracted children to learning but also helped create safe, welcoming spaces for education within their own communities.
Her approach focused on making education visual, interactive and relatable, especially for first-generation learners who often struggle in conventional classroom settings.
Education rooted in dignity and inclusion
Beyond academics, Nagi’s work emphasised self-worth, hygiene, gender equality and life skills. By involving local residents, parents and volunteers in the painting and teaching process, she fostered a sense of ownership and pride within the community.
The initiative helped bridge gaps for children who were out of school or at risk of dropping out due to poverty, migration and lack of infrastructure.
Global recognition for local impact
The Global Teacher Prize, often described as the “Nobel Prize for teaching”, is awarded annually to educators who make an exceptional contribution to the profession. Announcing the award at the World Governments Summit, organisers praised Nagi’s ability to combine creativity with compassion to deliver education in the most challenging environments.
Her work stood out among thousands of nominations from across the world.
Inspiring the next generation of educators
Accepting the award, Nagi dedicated the honour to teachers working in difficult conditions and said education must reach children “where they are, in ways they understand”.
Her story continues to inspire educators, policymakers and social entrepreneurs, proving that meaningful change can begin with simple ideas — even on the walls of a slum.