Mumbai/Dubai, 20 Feb 2026 – In a moment of pride for India, Mumbai-based educator and artist Rouble Nagi has been awarded the Global Teacher Prize 2026, taking home $1 million (approx. ₹9 crore) for her transformative work in underserved communities. The award was presented at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, where global leaders and education innovators gather annually to celebrate impactful change-makers.
Transforming Slums into Classrooms
For more than 20 years, Nagi has been revolutionizing education in Mumbai’s slum areas by turning blank and broken walls into vibrant, educational murals. Through her initiative, the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she pioneered the concept of “open-air classrooms”, where children learn literacy, numeracy, health awareness, and life skills within their own communities.
Her model specifically targets children who often drop out of school or never enroll due to socio-economic challenges. By bringing education directly to their neighborhoods, she has helped thousands of students reconnect with learning.
Global Recognition for Grassroots Innovation
The Global Teacher Prize is considered one of the highest honors in education. Nagi was selected from thousands of nominations worldwide, highlighting the global impact of her community-based, creative approach.
Education experts praise her work for demonstrating that innovation does not always require expensive infrastructure — sometimes, all it takes is a wall, a vision, and determination.
What’s Next
Following this international recognition, Nagi plans to expand her initiatives across India, reaching more underserved communities and strengthening community-based learning and skill development programs.
Her journey from Mumbai’s narrow lanes to the global stage is a testament to how creativity, determination, and social commitment can create meaningful change
