The Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards recognize the exceptional contribution of teachers in shaping student futures, transforming lives, and equipping young learners with the skills required to thrive in an increasingly complex world. After winning the South Asia regional category, Soma competed against eight other regional winners from across the globe and secured 40 percent of the public vote to claim the top international honor.
With more than a decade of teaching experience, Soma has earned recognition for placing climate education and professional development at the center of student learning. Holding a Master’s degree in Environmental Science, she has developed a climate-focused curriculum that encourages students to investigate environmental challenges and create practical solutions through collaborative and inquiry-based learning. Her approach aims to empower young learners to become confident advocates of climate action and sustainable development.
The announcement of her global victory came during what Soma believed was a routine acceptance event for her South Asia regional award. During a video call last week, Rod Smith, Group Managing Director of International Education at Cambridge, surprised her by revealing that she had also won the global public vote.
The formal celebration took place at the Cambridge offices in New Delhi on May 27. Soma attended the event alongside her mother Jharna Mandal, father Dipak Kumar Mandal, and brother Sourabh Mandal. During the ceremony, she received the global award and was granted a place on a Cambridge University Press & Assessment professional development online or virtual enrichment course of her choice.
Reacting to the recognition, Soma Mandal said the achievement came as a complete surprise and described it as a moment she would never forget. She emphasized her commitment to inspiring the next generation and highlighted the growing impact of climate anxiety among young people. According to Soma, her goal is to transform concern into meaningful participation by equipping students with hope, resilience, leadership, and the confidence to contribute to sustainable change at both local and global levels. She also expressed gratitude to Cambridge for the recognition and the memorable celebration.
Rod Smith praised Soma’s work, stating that hearing her describe the climate-focused curriculum she has built and the passion she brings to sustainability in the classroom was both inspiring and energizing. He said educators like Soma demonstrate how education can provide young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Smith further noted that Cambridge is proud to support Soma’s continued professional growth through the development opportunities included as part of the award. He emphasized that great teaching is rooted in continuous learning and that professional development is an ongoing mindset that enables educators to refine their practice and deliver the best outcomes for students.
In addition to the global title, Soma received GBP 500 worth of books for her classroom as part of her regional victory. She will also be featured on a special “Thank You” page in a range of new Cambridge textbooks scheduled for public release in November 2026.
Now in its eighth year, the Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards provide students, parents, and peers with an opportunity to nominate current primary and secondary school teachers who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to their students’ education.
Soma Mandal’s historic victory not only highlights her outstanding contribution to climate education and student development but also places Indian teaching excellence on the global stage. Her achievement stands as a powerful example of how innovative education can inspire future generations to address global challenges and create lasting positive change.
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