2026 Teacher Impact Story Challenge Winner: Standout Foundation Celebrates Renneh Sanyang and Awards Prize

Albert Einstein said, "It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge." 

This quote is a reflection of the impact of Renneh Sanyang, a teacher from Sheikh Mass Kah Senior Secondary School in The Gambia and winner of Standout Foundation's 2026 Teacher Impact Story Challenge in commemoration of International Literacy Day with the theme “Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity” 

Standout Foundation presented Renneh Sanyang with his prize; a tablet, and a certificate of achievement, awarded by the Executive Director of Standout Foundation, Faith Ememodo.

Renneh Sanyang's winning video highlighted his commitment to sparking a passion for impact that extends beyond the classroom, as he inspires his students to get involved in community service, backed by skill development, while openly celebrating his students' achievements.

As he says:

"One thing that inspires me as a teacher is my belief that learning is beyond the classroom and textbooks. Students learn better when they are given the opportunity to participate, to lead, and to do things together."

For Renneh, his work as a teacher goes beyond the classroom. He shared with us the moment he knew his work was making a difference:

"There was a boy who used to come to our school selling local drinks. He was visually impaired. I kept observing him. We sat together and I discovered he was very intelligent. That was in 2017. I enrolled him in a school, and now he has graduated. My support goes beyond the classroom."

The story reflects Renneh's belief that teachers can play an important role in helping students recognise their potential and access opportunities beyond the classrooms even as gaps persist. UNESCO reports that the world will need 44 million primary and secondary teachers by 2030, with 15 million of those needed in sub-Saharan Africa alone.

That is why, for us at Standout Foundation, one of our thematic areas is focused on teacher training and capacity development. Teachers are often the first touchpoint for inspiration, a source of motivation and an invaluable support for students, especially children with disabilities, those facing financial barriers to accessing education and those experiencing emotional challenges. 

Renneh Sanyang will also serve as the Teacher Ambassador for Standout Foundation for 2026, as we continue supporting teachers to deliver education for students. Receiving his prize, he expressed his gratitude to Standout Foundation and advised other teachers to continue inspiring learners.

"It is a great honour. A little effort can change a student's life. 

The dedication, commitment and sacrifice of teachers like Renneh Sanyang underscore the heart  behind the Teacher Impact Story Challenge. We believe teachers deserve to be supported and celebrated.