A Kenyan science teacher who donates the majority of his salary to poor students was awarded $1 million after being named the winner of a prize for the world's best educator.

Peter Tabichi, 36, who teaches math and physics at Keriko secondary school in Kenya's Rift Valley, received the Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize on Monday during a ceremony in Dubai hosted by actor Hugh Jackman.

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"Peter has dedicated his life to helping others," a statement on the Global Teacher Prize's website reads. "He gives 80% of his teaching salary to local community projects, including education, sustainable agriculture and peace-building.

"He’s changed the lives of his students in many ways, including the introduction of science clubs and the promotion of peace between different ethnic groups and religions."

Tabichi has led many efforts to better education in a part of Kenya where about 90 percent of his students come from poor families, according to The Guardian. Among other things, Tabichi has donated 80 percent of his income to poor students who do not have the means to purchase uniforms and books.

The newspaper notes that Tabichi has also launched a “talent nurturing club” and expanded the school's science club. In addition, Tabichi and four of his colleagues offer one-on-one tutoring in areas related to math and science.

The efforts have helped enrollment double to 400 in three years, according to The Guardian.

“I am only here because of what my students have achieved. This prize gives them a chance," Tabichi said after receiving the honor. "It tells the world that they can do anything.”