Rouble Nagi’s recognition as the winner of the $1 million Global Teacher Prize marks a historic milestone for grassroots education in India. Awarded by the Varkey Foundation at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, the prize honors Nagi for her 24-year journey of bringing education to children who have been largely excluded from the formal school system. Starting with a single small workshop for 30 children, her efforts have expanded into the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, which now operates more than 800 learning centers and has impacted the lives of over a million children.

Nagi’s approach is unique for its integration of art and community engagement. She is well-known for her "Mural Village" initiatives, where she paints educational murals on the walls of slum dwellings. These vibrant displays do more than just beautify the environment; they serve as open-air classrooms that teach essential subjects like math, science, history, and literacy to passersby and local residents. By transforming the physical landscape of these neighborhoods, she creates a culture of learning that encourages parents to enroll their children in her centers for structured education.

Beyond basic literacy, Nagi intends to use the $1 million award to further her mission by establishing an institute dedicated to free vocational training. This expansion aims to provide young adults with the practical skills needed for employment, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty. Her work has been praised by international bodies like UNESCO for demonstrating the profound impact a single dedicated educator can have on societal development. Nagi’s victory highlights the critical role of innovative, community-based teaching strategies in solving the global education crisis.