Peter Tabichi, who organisers say gives away 80 percent of his monthly income to the poor, received the prize at a ceremony Saturday in Dubai hosted by Hollywood star Hugh Jackman.
"Every day in Africa we turn a new page and a new chapter ... This prize does not recognise me but recognises this great continent's young people. I am only here because of what my students have achieved," Mr Tabichi said.
"This prize gives them a chance. It tells the world that they can do anything," he added after beating nine finalists from around the world to claim the award.
