Presented by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with UNESCO, the Global Teacher Prize recognizes an exceptional educator who has made an extraordinary impact on students, communities, and the profession.
Nagi was selected from over 5,000 nominations and applications representing 139 countries, highlighting her transformative work in bringing education to marginalized children.
For more than two decades, Nagi has dedicated herself to making learning accessible in India's most underserved slums and rural areas. Through her Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she has established over 800 community learning centers across more than 100 locations.
Recognizing that many children in these communities lack access to formal schooling or engaging resources, she has creatively transformed neglected and broken walls into vibrant, large-scale interactive educational murals.
These open-air artworks teach essential subjects including literacy, numeracy, science, mathematics, history, hygiene, and environmental awareness while sparking curiosity and turning everyday spaces into living classrooms.
Her innovative approach has helped bring more than one million children into the formal education system or supported their continued learning.
Starting her mission over 24 years ago with just 30 children, Nagi's efforts have evolved into a powerful movement that combines art, activism, and education to empower the most vulnerable.
"I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition," said Nagi upon accepting the award. "This is not just a personal achievement but a proud moment for India and for every teacher who believes education can change lives.
The prize money will enable me to establish a free vocational training institute, equipping young people with skills for a brighter future."
The announcement underscores the global importance of innovative teaching in addressing educational inequities.
Nagi becomes the first Indian woman to win the Global Teacher Prize, adding to India's legacy in the award's history.
The Varkey Foundation and UNESCO congratulated Nagi for embodying courage, creativity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to every child's right to learn.