Soma Mandal has emerged as one of nine regional winners in this global initiative, which honours exceptional teachers across the world for their contribution to education. As part of her recognition, she will receive £500 worth of books for her classroom, a trophy, and year-long publicity for both herself and her school. Additionally, she will be featured on a “Thank you” page in a new range of Cambridge textbooks scheduled for public release in November 2026.
With over 10 years of teaching experience, Soma Mandal currently serves at GD Goenka Public School, Delhi. Holding a master’s degree in environmental science, she has developed a dedicated climate-focused curriculum aimed at fostering students as confident and proactive agents of environmental change and sustainability.
Soma Mandal stated, “This recognition belongs to my students, whose commitment to climate action inspires me every time I step into the classroom. This award strengthens my resolve to embed climate education throughout learning, making sustainability tangible and connected to real challenges. I believe that when we equip young minds to respond to the climate crisis, they discover they have agency and voice. My students have shown me they are ready to act. Our role is simply to create the space and support for them to do so.”
The Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards spotlight the vital role educators play in shaping learners’ lives and preparing them for future challenges. The initiative allows students, parents, and peers to nominate teachers for exceptional dedication to education and student well-being. The 2026 edition received over 12,000 nominations spanning 126 countries.
Global voting is currently open for the overall winner, allowing the public to select from the nine regional winners. Voting is available until 13:30 IST on 13 May 2026, with the final global winner to be announced on 2 June 2026.
Rod Smith, Group Managing Director of International Education at Cambridge, stated that education plays a central role in addressing the climate crisis and praised Soma Mandal’s impact in integrating climate awareness into classroom learning. He noted that her approach equips learners with knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage with global environmental challenges.
Cambridge University Press & Assessment, part of the University of Cambridge, operates in over 160 countries and collaborates with more than 10,000 schools worldwide. Through its Cambridge Pathway, internationally recognised qualifications, and teaching resources, the organisation supports learners aged 3 to 19 in developing the skills required for a rapidly changing world.
Soma Mandal’s recognition underscores the growing importance of climate-focused education in shaping responsible, informed, and action-oriented future generations.
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