The world is set to honour exceptional educators as the Varkey Foundation, in collaboration with UNESCO, prepares to unveil the Top 10 finalists for the US$1 million Global Teacher Prize.
The announcement, scheduled for two days from now, will celebrate the transformative power of great teaching and highlight the achievements of educators making remarkable contributions to their communities.
Established as part of the GEMS Education initiative, the Global Teacher Prize aims to elevate the teaching profession, acknowledging the critical role teachers play in shaping future generations.
With a $1 million reward for the ultimate winner, the award shines a spotlight on the dedication, innovation, and resilience of teachers worldwide.
Previous Winners Making a Difference
Among past recipients is Sister Zeph of Pakistan, the 2023 Global Teacher Prize winner.
Starting a school for underprivileged children at just 13 years old, Sister Zeph founded the Zephaniah Women’s Education and Empowerment Foundation (ZWEE). Her school, offering free education and vocational training, has been instrumental in empowering hundreds of students, particularly young girls, with skills such as IT, English, and martial arts.
The prize, launched in 2014, recognises outstanding educators who inspire their students and communities to dream big. From Peter Tabichi of Kenya, who donated most of his prize money to support rural schoolchildren, to Ranjitsinh Disale of India, whose innovations improved the lives of girls in remote villages, each winner has exemplified the life-changing impact of teaching.