Pakistani teacher wins $1m Global Teacher Prize

ISLAMABAD: Sister Zeph, a dedicated Pakistani teacher who, as a teenager, established a school for underprivileged children within her home, has been awarded the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize.

At the age of 13, Sister Zeph launched a modest school in her home’s courtyard, catering to children whose parents could not afford formal education. Her relentless dedication led her to work eight-hour days to finance the school, followed by four-hour teaching sessions with her students. Evenings were devoted to self-improvement through further studies.

Fast forward 26 years, and the school has blossomed into a purpose-built institution that offers free education to over 200 underprivileged children.

Sister Zeph’s vision for the future includes utilizing the $1 million prize to construct a school spread across four hectares, committed to providing education without discrimination to children from the nation’s most economically disadvantaged families. She also aspires to establish a shelter for orphans, complete with in-house food production, and invites educators from around the globe to contribute to their learning.

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Stefania Giannini, Assistant Director-General for Education at UNESCO, extended her congratulations to Sister Zeph for clinching the Global Teacher Prize 2023.

Giannini emphasized the vital role of inspirational teachers, especially amidst global teacher shortages and diminishing conditions and status within the profession. She highlighted the significance of honoring and supporting teachers who not only shape the next generation but also influence the trajectory of our societies.

Hailing from Gujranwala, Punjab, Pakistan, Sister Zeph stood out among over 7,000 nominations and applications. Her educational curriculum covers English, Urdu, cultural studies, interfaith harmony, and climate change.

Furthermore, she provides self-defense classes for girls, extends financial aid to families grappling with the choice between their children’s education and bills, and operates a vocational center that has empowered over 6,000 women with computer skills, textile expertise, and English language proficiency.

The Global Teacher Prize, now in its eighth year, is an annual accolade bestowed by the Varkey Foundation to educators who have made remarkable contributions to the field.

The Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize 2023, presented in collaboration with UNESCO and Dubai Cares, stands as the largest award of its kind.

The esteemed actor, comedian, and writer Stephen Fry unveiled Sister Zeph as the laureate during a ceremony hosted at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris. Sunny Varkey, the founder of the Varkey Foundation, celebrated Sister Zeph’s achievement, acknowledging the pivotal role education plays in addressing the challenges of our contemporary world.

Tariq Al Gurg, the CEO and Vice-Chairman of Dubai Cares, also extended his heartfelt congratulations to Sister Zeph, recognizing the invaluable role that teachers play in molding young minds and preparing them for a dynamic world.

The selection process for the Global Teacher Prize scrutinizes educators based on their teaching methods, innovative approaches to local challenges, demonstrable learning outcomes, community impact, global citizenship promotion among students, and contributions to the enhancement of the teaching profession.

PM Kakar congratulates Pakistani teacher

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Friday congratulated Sister Zeph on winning the Global Teacher Prize 2023, calling it a “great moment of pride” for Pakistan.

 “A great moment of pride for Pakistan. Our very own sister Zeph has won the Global Teacher Prize 2023,” the prime minister wrote on social media platform X.

A great moment of pride for Pakistan. Our very own sister Zeph has won the Global Teacher Prize 2023.
Education is a subject really close to my heart. I believe only education can uplift the people to achieve laurels for themselves and their country and can make them better… https://t.co/U4Hpt4UY77

— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) November 10, 2023

He said education was a subject really close to his heart as only education could uplift the people to achieve laurels for themselves and their country besides making them better citizens.

 “I once again congratulate Sister Zeph on this remarkable achievement,” he remarked.