Artist's Brush Transforms Slums into Classrooms

Rouble Nagi, an artist recognized with the $1 million Global Teacher Prize, has dedicated three decades to providing education in India's marginalized communities. Her non-profit, the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation (RNAF), has established over 800 learning centers across more than 100 underserved communities and villages.

Nagi's unique approach involves using art as a primary tool to engage children, transforming drab surroundings into vibrant learning spaces with educational murals. These centers offer free lessons in basic math and language, with volunteers providing skill-based instruction. Many centers operate in informal settings, demonstrating Nagi's belief that learning can occur anywhere.

The foundation goes beyond academics, with teachers often acting as counselors and protectors for children from difficult family situations. Volunteers conduct home visits if a child misses sessions, and regular parent sessions ensure community involvement. This holistic approach has enabled many students to complete their schooling and pursue higher education.

One success story is Mayur, a former student who now runs his own art classes and business, and volunteers with RNAF. Nagi's 'Misaal' project further enhances communities by painting educational murals on slum walls, promoting awareness on topics like hygiene and social responsibility.

With the Global Teacher Prize winnings, Nagi plans to expand RNAF's initiatives to Jammu and Kashmir, her home region, where she aims to build a new skill-cum-learning center equipped with computers. Seven-year-old Khushi, a student in Colaba, exemplifies the hope these centers foster, dreaming of becoming a teacher.