The teacher who won $1 million for turning slums into open-air classrooms
Rouble Nagi, an artist, received a $1 million prize for her innovative work in transforming impoverished neighborhoods in Mumbai into educational spaces.
Rouble Nagi, a dedicated artist and educator, has been instrumental in transforming marginalized communities in Mumbai into places of learning. Over the last thirty years, she has focused on providing free education in underprivileged areas, primarily reaching out to the children of washerwomen in the city. This initiative not only offers classes in basic subjects like mathematics and language but also helps children who have previously dropped out of school to re-engage with their education.
Her latest achievement, winning a $1 million grant, is a testament to the impactful work being done by Nagi and her non-profit organization. This award will enhance the resources available to her learning center, allowing her to expand the reach and quality of the education offered. The centers not only serve as educational institutions but also foster community building and support among families who face significant socio-economic challenges.
By converting spaces within slums into functional classrooms, Nagi is showcasing a model that could inspire similar initiatives in other underprivileged neighborhoods globally. The implications of her work extend beyond education; they offer a blueprint for social upliftment, emphasizing the importance of access to quality education in breaking the cycle of poverty.