Srinagar, February 26, 2026 : Rouble Nagi, an educator and social activist who recently won the prestigious Global Teacher Prize 2026, on Wednesday announced that she will utilise the USD 1 million prize money to establish a comprehensive skill-cum-learning centre in Kashmir.
Nagi, a Jammu-born artist and educationist, received the award at the World Government Summit in Dubai, where it was presented by the Crown Prince of Dubai. The Global Teacher Prize is a USD 1 million annual award instituted by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with UNESCO, recognising exceptional contributions to the teaching profession.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Nagi said her vision is to create a single institutional platform in Kashmir where children, youth and women can access education and skill training under one roof.
“I want to open a strong institutional skill and learning centre in Kashmir where learners from different places can come together under one umbrella,” she said.
She said the new centre will focus on practical skills, education and empowerment, particularly for women and young people. Nagi also announced plans to expand similar learning centres in villages along the Line of Control (LoC) to strengthen livelihoods and self-reliance in border areas.
During her visit to north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, Nagi toured the LoC village of Amrohi in Tangdhar with the support of the Indian Army, where she distributed blankets among needy families and interacted with students. She reiterated her commitment to continue grassroots work in Jammu and Kashmir through her foundation, which already runs education and skill centres across several parts of India.
“With this recognition, if earlier we planned to do ten things, now we can do fifteen,” she said, adding that the award has strengthened her resolve to expand her initiatives.
Reflecting on the honour, Nagi said the recognition brings both responsibility and encouragement.
“This award is not for one individual. It belongs to all teachers, students and the entire team who are part of this journey. It reinforces the dignity and respect of teachers across the country,” she said, calling education the most vital foundation in every child’s life.
She added that collective efforts are essential to ensure inclusive education and skill development, aligning with the broader vision of a developed and empowered India.
