Pope Francis congratulated a Palestinian teacher as he awarded her the Global Teacher prize worth $1m.

Hanan al-Hroub, who grew up as a refugee in Bethlehem and now teaches refugee children, was given the prestigious award at a star-studded ceremony in Dubai on Sunday.

Hroub has used her childhood experiences to develop a teaching technique which promoted play as a learning tool to shun violence. The author of We Play We Learn promotes the slogan "no to violence" and has taught refugee children to develop respectful, trusting relationships. Her approach has led to a marked decline in violence in schools as she encourages youngsters to work together.

"I would like to congratulate the teacher Hanan al-Hroub for winning this prestigious prize due to the importance that she gave to the 'playing' part in the education of the children," said Pope Francis as he announced the award via video link.

The Duke of Cambridge and former US President Bill Clinton also praised the teacher.

"I know what an incredible teacher can mean to a child," said Prince William via video link. "A good teacher holds the power to influence, inspire and shape a young person's life for the better. They represent the key to real change in this world."

The royal added: "Teachers are also uniquely placed to recognise and support the most vulnerable and troubled children in our society, reaching young people early on in their education and providing them with the extra support they need and giving them the best possible chance in life. This is an incredible responsibility."

Clinton added to the accolades, saying: "You don't hear it often enough, but your work is truly heroic."

The award is in its second year and gives the winner $1m (£706,000). Hroub said she planned to use the money to help students and teachers around the world progress in their careers.

In her acceptance speech she said: "I am proud to be a Palestinian female teacher standing on this stage. I accept this as a win for all teachers in general and Palestinian teachers in particular.

"Each day, the role of the teacher is reinforced and its importance confirmed as the world questions what future we want for our children."