Indian Teacher Wins South Asia Regional Title at Cambridge Teacher Awards 2026

Indian educator Soma Mandal has been named the South Asia regional winner of the prestigious Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards 2026, bringing international recognition to India’s education community and highlighting the growing importance of climate-focused learning in schools.

Soma Mandal, a science teacher at GD Goenka Public School, was selected by judges for her efforts in encouraging students to actively engage with climate change awareness, sustainability, and environmental action. Organised by Cambridge University Press & Assessment, the annual global awards honour teachers who make a meaningful impact on students and communities beyond traditional classroom teaching.

According to Cambridge officials, the 2026 competition received more than 12,000 nominations from 126 countries, making it one of the largest global recognitions for educators. Soma Mandal emerged as one of nine regional winners selected worldwide for exceptional dedication to education and student development.

With over a decade of teaching experience and a master’s degree in environmental science, Mandal has developed climate-focused educational programs aimed at helping students understand real-world environmental challenges and contribute toward sustainable solutions. Her teaching approach reportedly combines science education with practical climate awareness projects and student-led initiatives.

Reacting to the honour, Soma Mandal said the recognition belonged equally to her students, whose enthusiasm toward climate action continues to inspire her classroom efforts. She emphasized the importance of making sustainability education practical, engaging, and connected to real-life global challenges.

As part of the award, Mandal will receive a trophy, educational resources worth £500 for her classroom, and global recognition through Cambridge educational publications scheduled for release later this year. Public voting has now opened to select the overall global winner from among the nine regional champions, with the final announcement expected in June 2026.

Education experts say the recognition reflects the increasing global focus on climate education and the role teachers play in preparing students for future environmental and social challenges. The award has also drawn praise from India’s academic community, with many educators describing it as a proud moment for the country’s teaching profession.