Delhi-based science teacher Soma Mandal has become the first Indian educator to win the Global Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award 2026, earning international recognition for using climate education to inspire meaningful environmental action among students.
The award, presented by Cambridge University Press & Assessment’s International Education group, honours teachers who make an exceptional impact inside and outside the classroom.
Mandal, who teaches at GD Goenka Public School in New Delhi, received 40% of the global public vote, emerging as the winner from more than 12,000 nominations across 129 countries. She said the recognition reinforces her belief that education should empower children to become problem-solvers rather than passive observers. Cambridge officials described her work as an inspiring example of how teachers can prepare young people for the future through innovative learning.
Cambridge Teacher Award 2026
Soma Mandal’s journey to becoming the global winner began when she was selected as the South Asia regional winner of the Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards. She was invited to what she believed was a virtual event celebrating regional winners. Instead, organizers’ surprised her by announcing that she had won the global title.
“I was in complete disbelief,” Mandal said while recalling the moment. “This recognition belongs not only to me but to every student who believes they can make a difference.”
With over a decade of teaching experience and a Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Mandal has built her classroom around the idea that science should extend beyond textbooks. Rather than simply teaching students about climate change, she encourages them to identify local environmental issues, conduct research, collaborate on solutions and take practical action within their communities.
Her approach aims to replace fear about climate change with hope, leadership and responsibility. According to Mandal, education should equip children with the confidence and skills to create positive change instead of leaving them overwhelmed by global challenges.
Climate Education in Schools
At the heart of Mandal’s teaching philosophy is the belief that environmental education should be practical, engaging and community-focused. Her classroom activities encourage students to connect scientific concepts with real-world issues, helping them understand how individual and collective actions can contribute to sustainability.
Speaking after receiving the award, Mandal said, “My mission is to transform concern into meaningful participation by empowering students with hope, resilience, leadership and the confidence to contribute to sustainable change.”
Cambridge University Press & Assessment praised her innovative teaching methods and commitment to sustainability. Rod Smith, Group Managing Director of International Education, said Mandal’s work demonstrates how exceptional teachers can inspire students while addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
He described her climate-focused lessons as “inspiring and energising”, adding that her dedication reflects the transformative role teachers play in preparing young people for an uncertain future.
The award recognises not only academic excellence but also educators who create lasting social impact through creativity, inclusion and student-centred learning.
India Gets Global Recognition
Mandal formally received the Global Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award during a ceremony held at Cambridge’s New Delhi office on May 27, where she was joined by her family.
As part of the recognition, she will receive a place on a Cambridge professional development course designed to support educators worldwide. Her classroom will also receive £500 worth of Cambridge books, providing additional learning resources for students. Furthermore, Mandal will be featured on a special “Thank You” page in selected Cambridge textbooks that will be published later this year, allowing students around the world to learn about her contribution to education.
The Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards celebrate educators who go beyond traditional teaching by supporting student wellbeing, encouraging innovation and helping young people develop life skills alongside academic knowledge.
For India, Mandal’s achievement marks an important milestone. It highlights the growing global appreciation for Indian teachers who are adopting innovative teaching practices while addressing contemporary issues such as climate change, sustainability and responsible citizenship.
Her recognition also reflects the increasing importance of climate education at a time when schools worldwide are being encouraged to prepare students for environmental challenges that will shape future generations.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Great teachers do far more than complete a syllabus, they nurture curiosity, compassion and the confidence to improve society. Soma Mandal’s achievement is a reminder that classrooms can become spaces where children learn not only scientific facts but also empathy, responsibility and collective action.
As climate change continues to affect communities across the world, schools have an important role in helping students move beyond awareness towards practical solutions. Recognizing educators who inspire young people to become thoughtful citizens sends a powerful message about the value of education that creates lasting social impact.
Should climate action become a core part of every school’s curriculum so that more students can grow into environmentally responsible citizens?
