Meet our Top 50 Finalists for the Global Teacher Prize 2026!

Spanning the globe, our Top 50 teachers are transforming lives through education. Whether teaching in remote villages or innovating in inner-city schools, they promote inclusivity, defend children’s rights, and drive positive change. By blending creativity and technology in the classroom, they empower students with the skills and confidence to succeed. These educators are champions of progress, inspiring their communities as well as their students. Celebrate their remarkable achievements with us.

Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Global Teacher Prize, GEMS Education, and the Varkey Foundation, said: 

“Congratulations to this year's top 50 finalists. The Global Teacher Prize was created with a simple mission: to shine a light on teachers like you – educators whose dedication, creativity, and compassion deserve to be celebrated and shared with the world. Teachers shape minds, spark confidence, and open the doors through which young people create brighter futures for themselves and others. Your work extends far beyond the classroom – it touches lives and shapes the world.”

Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, said:

“Congratulations to this year’s top 50 finalists. UNESCO is honoured to stand alongside the Global Teacher Prize in celebrating the extraordinary commitment of teachers everywhere. Our world is navigating profound challenges – from teacher shortages and rapid technological shifts to the urgent demands of climate action. If we are to build a just, inclusive and sustainable future, we must recognise a simple truth: we cannot rise to this moment unless we invest in teachers.”

Lisa Crausby, Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education, said: 

“At GEMS Education, we see first-hand the transformative impact that teachers have on the lives of young people worldwide. Every day, they inspire, uplift, and nurture the minds of future generations. We are deeply honoured to partner with the Global Teacher Prize, a remarkable initiative that recognises the dedication, passion, and resilience of teachers everywhere who are working tirelessly to build a brighter, more hopeful world.”