Rouble Nagi, an inspiring Indian educator, has made remarkable strides in transforming the lives of countless children by establishing over 800 vibrant learning centers throughout India. Her dedicated efforts have earned her the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize from GEMS Education, celebrating her commitment to education for those who have never set foot in a classroom.

These learning centers, located in more than 100 slums and villages, provide safe, nurturing environments for children facing the challenges of poverty, such as child labor and early marriage. Instead of viewing these obstacles as insurmountable, Rouble takes a creative approach to education, tailoring it to the realities of her students’ lives. She offers flexible schedules for working children and promotes hands-on learning with recycled materials, ensuring that the skills taught are immediately beneficial to families.

Thanks to her innovative programs, dropout rates have plummeted by over 50%, and the long-term retention of students in schools has seen a remarkable improvement. With the $1 million prize, Rouble plans to establish a free vocational institute and a digital literacy training program, aiming to uplift millions more young people from marginalized backgrounds.

Her journey began in her early twenties when she was invited to lead an art workshop. There, she encountered a child who had never held a pencil, a moment that profoundly changed her life. Over the past two decades, Rouble has successfully integrated over one million children into the formal education system, using art as one of her most effective tools.

She has turned neglected walls into dynamic murals that serve as outdoor classrooms, teaching a variety of subjects, including reading, math, science, and even social responsibility. These murals, funded by her nonprofit, the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, do more than beautify the environment; they engage children in learning and enlist parents and communities as active partners in education.

Sunny Varkey, the founder of the Global Teacher Prize, beautifully encapsulated Rouble's impact, stating, "Rouble Nagi represents the very best of what teaching can be – courage, creativity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential."

Now celebrating its tenth year, the Global Teacher Prize, in collaboration with UNESCO, has recognized Rouble among over 5,000 nominees from 139 countries. Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, emphasized the importance of teachers, saying, "This moment reminds us of a simple truth: teachers matter." She highlighted the critical role educators play in bringing children into school—an action that can fundamentally alter a life’s trajectory.

Rouble, the author of "The Slum Queen," travels extensively throughout India, where she not only works with children in her learning centers but also mentors the teachers who guide them. She has trained and recruited over 600 educators, establishing a model that meets children where they are—academically, socially, and economically.

In addition to her educational endeavors, Rouble is an internationally acclaimed artist. Through her Rouble Nagi Design Studio, she has created more than 850 murals and sculptures, exhibiting her work in 200 shows worldwide, with pieces featured in the permanent collection of the President of India.

Rouble Nagi’s story is a heartening reminder of the profound impact that dedicated teachers can have, shaping the future of individuals and communities alike. Sharing her inspiring journey can motivate educators everywhere to continue their vital work in nurturing the potential of every child.