By Divine Ihechimerem
Tionge Mtambo, headteacher at Tondola Primary School in Chitipa, Malawi, has been named one of the top 10 finalists for the esteemed GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize, a $1 million award recognizing outstanding educators worldwide. Mtambo, who was selected from over 5,000 nominations across 89 countries, has been celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions to education in Malawi.
The Global Teacher Prize, now in its ninth year, aims to highlight the critical role teachers play in shaping society. The award is a partnership between the Varkey Foundation and UNESCO and serves as a global recognition of exceptional teaching. Mtambo’s work has particularly focused on empowering vulnerable children, addressing issues like child marriage, poverty, and gender inequality. Since beginning her teaching career in 2017, she has developed initiatives such as school feeding programs, girls’ hostels, and literacy-building activities, benefiting over 15,000 girls in her community.
Her transformative leadership has not only improved educational outcomes in her district but also earned her the title of Malawi’s Best Teacher of the Year in 2022. Mtambo’s passion for education and advocacy for girls’ rights continues to inspire both local and global communities.
The winner of the Global Teacher Prize will be announced at the World Governments Summit in Dubai from February 11-13, 2025. The prize, which honors teachers’ dedication to improving education, has received over 100,000 nominations and applications since its inception.
Sunny Varkey, founder of the Global Teacher Prize, praised Mtambo’s remarkable efforts, stating that her work exemplifies the impact teachers can have on building a better future. Mtambo’s recognition underscores the invaluable contributions teachers make in creating transformative learning environments worldwide.