She might have narrowly missed a whopping $1 million (K1.7 billion) award, but Tionge Mtambo will forever cherish her global recognition for philanthropic work.
The 31-year-old head teacher at Tondola Primary School, a rural public school in Chitipa District, was among top 10 finalists of the 2025 Global Teacher Prize.
Mtambo began her teaching career at Nahayombo Primary School in 2017 in the same district.
She was shortlisted for the prestigious award for her charitable work in championing girl’s rights, welfare, inclusive education and supporting vulnerable learners.
In an interview on Thursday, Mtambo, who travelled to the United Arab Emirates, Dubai, between February 11 2025 and February 13 2025 for the award ceremony, described it as an honour to make it to the top 10 finalists globally.
Over 50 teachers from across the globe applied.
Mtambo said: “It was a moment of validation, not just for me, but all the teachers working tirelessly to transform education. Coming from a rural district in Malawi [Chitipa] and being recognised on such a global stage proved that impactful work, no matter where it happens, does not go unnoticed.”
Mtambo she anticipated winning the prestigious award, Mtambo said her main expectation was to use the platform to amplify voices of vulnerable learners, especially girls facing barriers to education.
She nevertheless said the recognition fuelled her passion and has shown her work is not just important, but necessary.
The teacher said she is more determined than ever to expand advocacy for girls’ hostels, feeding programmes and inclusive education, find more partners and push for policies that support vulnerable learners.
“I have learned that teachers are powerful change-makers. Education is not just about teaching in the classroom, but transforming lives.
“I have also learned the importance of storytelling in education. Sharing our struggles and successes can inspire action and bring in much-needed support,” she said.
Mtambo, who is currently pursuing further studies at the Catholic University of Malawi, said teachers need to keep innovating to encourage girls to focus on education, regardless of challenges.
Founder of the Global Teacher Prize and chairperson of the Varkey Foundation Sunny Varkey said the award was introduced to highlight the importance of teachers.
He said: “The award was created to spotlight education’s critical role in addressing major challenges of our time—from combating climate change to reducing inequality and navigating technological change.”
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) assistant director general for education, Stefania Giannini, hailed founders of the award.
“We are proud to support the Global Teacher Prize which honours the dedication and impact of teachers worldwide.
“In a time of global teacher shortages, challenging conditions and technological advances, recognising and investing in teachers is essential to building a just, inclusive and sustainable future,” she said.
