New Delhi (India), July 20: Education plays a pivotal role in shaping societies and driving progress. While teachers and institutions have traditionally been at the forefront of imparting knowledge, a new set of individuals, known as edupreneurs, have emerged as catalysts for positive change in recent times.
The Role of Edupreneurs:
Edupreneurs combine their entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for education, paving the way for innovative approaches that address the evolving needs of learners. Their endeavours encompass various initiatives, including Edtech startups, online learning platforms, and alternative education models. Vineet Gupta Ashoka University, Founder, emphasises the significance of empowering learners through education. He states, “Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about nurturing curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Edupreneurs have a unique opportunity to shape the future by equipping individuals with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.”
Driving Innovation in Education:
Edupreneurs are at the forefront of driving innovation in education, revolutionising traditional learning methods, and fostering personalised learning experiences. Using technology, they offer interactive platforms, adaptive learning systems, and immersive virtual environments, creating engaging educational experiences that resonate with students and other emerging new-age use cases.
According to a report by HolonIQ, global ed-tech funding reached a record-breaking $20 billion in 2021, a significant increase from $16.1 billion in 2020. And the funding is expected to reach $ 80 billion by 2030, reflecting the growing recognition of the potential of technology in education. India has seen a dip in funding this year, but seeing relevance and an overall positive macro picture Edupreneurs continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in education. Rajat Johari, Senior Consultant at Unacademy, left his Group-A Officer job in the government sector to become an educator and Edupreneur. He says, “We are utilising the Indian tech startup ecosystem to revolutionise student education. The road ahead is challenging and ever-evolving; it requires several edupreneurs with distinct capabilities and ‘learning skill set’ to bring about the impact.”
Impact on Society:
Edupreneurs not only transform education but also have a far-reaching impact on society. Equipping individuals with relevant skills and knowledge enhances employability and economic opportunities. A well-educated society contributes to economic growth, reduces poverty, and fosters social mobility.
Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” This sentiment resonates with the work of edupreneurs, who understand that education is a catalyst for positive social change. They empower individuals to challenge societal norms, foster critical thinking and promote inclusivity. Shraddha Manu Foundation (SMF) designed a multiple-intelligence curriculum for economically weaker sections. They created a six-month 150-hour in-class and online programme to enhance women's numerical skills, English language skills and digital literacy so they can have a source of income. Madhumati Narayanan, Founder of SMF, shares, “Through SMF, we are trying to give a chance to underprivileged women to become part-time teachers or entrepreneurs. We plan to empower the people who lacked opportunities to stand on their own feet.”
Vineet Gupta, one of the Ashoka University Founders, further emphasises the transformative power of education, stating, “Education can break cycles of poverty and create a more equitable society. Edupreneurs are responsible for ensuring that education is not a privilege but a fundamental right accessible to everyone. Real education is about economic development and growth, upliftment and welfare.”
Collaboration for Impact:
The work of Edupreneurs is not limited to individual efforts. Collaboration with governments, educational institutions, and other stakeholders is crucial for creating a sustainable and scalable impact. By partnering with policymakers and educational experts, Edupreneurs can influence education policies, advocate for reforms and drive systemic change. The Indian government is focused on transforming the education system in line with global standards. The budget 2023 strongly emphasises the implementation of the New Education Policy, which focuses on youth skill development, technology, innovation and the digitisation of the education sector, highlighting the significance of education and skill development.
Edupreneurs are driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive difference in society through education. By being at the forefront of an educational revolution and with their entrepreneurial mindset, they can bridge gaps, increase access, and transform traditional learning models.