Santosh Rout

𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 In today's dynamic business environment, sustainability isn't just a buzzword—it's a necessity. One powerful approach to achieving it is through a double bottom line strategy, which emphasizes both financial performance and social impact. By focusing on a double bottom line, companies can: 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞: Balancing economic gains with social good ensures that businesses thrive while making a positive difference in the world. 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐲: Customers and employees are increasingly drawn to companies that prioritize ethical practices and community contributions. 𝐅𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Integrating social impact into business models encourages creative solutions that address societal challenges and open new market opportunities. 𝐄𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠-𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐦 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞: Sustainable practices build a robust foundation, helping companies navigate uncertainties and market fluctuations. Embracing a double bottom line approach is not just good for the world—it's good for business. Let's create a future where profitability and purpose go hand in hand. 🌱💼 #Sustainability #DoubleBottomLine #CorporateResponsibility #BusinessForGood #Innovation #LongTermSuccess TimesPro

16

Get a sneak peek into the valuable insights at the Association of Indian Management Schools webinar on "Simplifying #Accreditation." Uncover how to adopt a quality-first approach to accreditations and make Outcome-#BasedEducation (OBE) a breeze. Dive into the crucial role of academic and non-academic data and explore the detailed workings of faculty profiles. Don't miss this chance to elevate your institution's accreditation process with top-notch guidance from AIMS! #Accreditation #EducationWebinar #QualityFirst #OutcomeBasedEducation #OBE #AcademicData #FacultyProfiles #HigherEducation #InstitutionalExcellence #AIMSWebinar #EduLeadership #AcademicStandards

10

1 Comment

Eblity in association with Draper Startup House and eChai Ventures presents a compelling panel discussion on Harnessing AI for Social Impact: Addressing Education Inequality in India Education inequality is a critical challenge in India that needs our immediate attention. Various stakeholders face difficulties in solving this issue due to a lack of resources. However, emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, present promising opportunities to significantly bridge this resource gap. Let’s delve deeper and explore these solutions! 🗓️ 23rd May 2024, Thursday at 6:30 PM Register Here: https://lnkd.in/d7zdDbtG 💫 Why Attend? •⁠ Learn from leading experts in the social sector •⁠ Network with peers committed to making a difference. •⁠ Gain insights into approaches to tackling educational inequality. Join us to explore how AI can transform the educational landscape in India! Venkataramanan Sriraman Rupali Ramesh Patil Steven Suting Rishi Mazumdar

36

4 Comments

The edtech industry is facing a challenging time, marked by waning investor interest and reduced demand for online learning in the aftermath of the pandemic. Amid this, Alakh Pandey-led edtech unicorn PhysicsWallah (PW) has bagged $210 million in a Series B funding round led by investment firm Hornbill Capital, with a sizable participation from venture capital firm Lightspeed Venture Partners.   Scaling operations:  With the latest funding round, PW’s post-money valuation has soared to $2.8 billion, making it the third-most valued edtech firm, trailing only Unacademy ($3.4 billion) and Eruditus ($3.2 billion), based on their last valuations. PW will use the funds for market consolidation, with the potential for “one large deal” in the next 12 months, according to Co-founder Prateek Maheshwari. PW, which initially focused on test-prep, has rapidly diversified its educational offerings to encompass everything, from school education to skills training. It has also acquired firms like PrepOnline and Altis Vortex to enhance its NEET, GATE, and related categories. #edtechcompany #funding #equityfunding

3

1 Comment

Transforming Education Standards with PARAKH India's education system is evolving, and at the forefront of this change is PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development). This initiative isn't just another policy; it's a game-changer designed to shift the focus from traditional rote learning to competency-based education. What does this mean for examination boards? - Boards will no longer be limited to conducting exams that assess memorization skills. Instead, they'll guide students toward understanding, applying, and mastering skills that prepare them for real-world challenges. - PARAKH aims to ensure assessments that truly reflect a student’s potential, aligning with international standards and fostering critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. The mission is clear:Equip our learners with more than just marks. Give them the tools to thrive in a rapidly changing world where competency is the key differentiator. How do you see the impact of this competency-focused shift in education? Will it prepare students for better career prospects and life challenges? Share your thoughts below! Indrani Bhaduri CII Eastern Region #gemseducationindia Francis Joseph Ashok Pandey Dr. Swati Popat Vats Lina Ashar Naveen Mahesh Dr Amrita Vohra Senthil Kumaran A Dr Jonathan Mendonca

87

6 Comments

While meeting budding Edtech founders and product managers one question always arises : Question-When do we get to realize that our product is now market fit and ready to roll in market? Answer - When we see our own, friend's/relative's kids willing to use it,re-use it and consequently with learning impact. PS-Our retention rate is highest with least marketing budget #myedubag #edtech

27

1 Comment

Gamified Learning: Youth Innovations in India 📱 App Development in EdTech: 1️⃣ Interactive Learning Platforms: Apps providing interactive learning experiences, personalized tutoring, and extensive educational resources are on the rise. 2️⃣ Gamified Learning: Incorporating gamification, these apps include quizzes, challenges, and rewards to make learning more engaging and fun. #EdTech #Innovation #YoungEntrepreneurs #GamifiedLearning #InteractiveLearning

4

Embracing the New Education Policy: The Role of K-12 Schools in Transforming Learning The New Education Policy (NEP) is a monumental step towards redefining the education system in India. It aims to foster creativity, critical thinking, and holistic development, moving beyond rote learning. For K-12 Schools, this policy is an opportunity to reshape education to be more engaging and meaningful. But how can we bring the element of fun into learning? 1. Experiential Learning: Encourage hands-on activities, projects, and experiments that allow students to connect theories with real-life applications. 2. Gamification: Integrating learning with games and interactive technologies can make complex subjects enjoyable and relatable. 3. Creative Expression: Emphasizing art, storytelling, and discussions alongside traditional subjects fosters innovation and self-expression. 4. Student-Centered Approach: Empowering students to explore their interests and learn at their own pace creates an environment of intrinsic motivation. K-12 schools can play a pivotal role in making learning an enriching experience for young minds. It’s time we move towards an education system that not only informs but inspires. What are your thoughts on bringing fun into education? 🌱✨ #NewEducationPolicy #K12Education #ExperientialLearning #StudentCenteredLearning #EducationReform #HolisticDevelopment #EdTech #InspiringEducation #FutureOfLearning

6

3 Comments

Late night healthy conversation between two Edtech Startups at Draper Startup House Hyderabad, these kind of discussions helps to see the gap between two different startups from two different states and cities to understand our target 🎯 audience based on regional markets #startups #edtech #mindset

12

🌟 Insightful Panel Discussion at Samsidh Schools, Electronic City Branch, Bangalore 🌟 We recently hosted an engaging and meaningful panel discussion on “The Role of Social Media in Shaping Our Children’s Values and Self-Identity.” Our distinguished panellists shared valuable insights into the dual impact of social media. On one hand, it facilitates visualization, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning. On the other, it presents significant concerns, such as addiction, harmful comparisons, and behavioural changes. Citing studies like those in the latest book "Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt, the conversation addressed the alarming trends seen in teenagers today, including anxiety, depression, and self-harm as consequences of social media overuse. At Samsidh Schools, we recognize that safeguarding our children’s well-being extends beyond the physical world into the digital realm. Our integrated curriculum and character development programs are designed to empower students with the skills to make discerning choices, fostering an environment that emphasizes values-based decision-making and resilience. 🤝 To all parents, we invite you to join us in this mission. Let’s collaborate to prepare our children not only for the tangible challenges of the real world but also for the complexities of the ever-changing digital landscape. Indu Sannoo Lalitha S Aditya Phani Prasad Chaitanya Siddarth Vasa Govindarajan Srinivasaraghavan Arjun A Mini Nair Samsidh Group of Schools AZVASA EDUCATION #SamsidhSchools #CharacterEducation #DigitalWellness #SocialMediaImpact #ParentPartnership #21stCenturySkills

27

4 Comments

Revolutionizing Assessments in Higher Education Institutes: From Marks to Mastery In the dynamic landscape of Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) in India, assessment practices play a pivotal role in shaping the learning journey of students. Traditionally, the assessment patterns have been largely dominated by in-semester and end-of-semester exams, with limited emphasis on continuous internal evaluation. However, with the advent of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020),there's a significant paradigm shift towards a more holistic and outcome-based approach to assessment. Let's delve into how this transformation is reshaping the educational landscape. https://lnkd.in/guRXXAge

3

Analysis of Allen Institute’s Potential Acquisition of Unacademy The proposed $800 million acquisition of Unacademy by Allen Institute represents a significant milestone in the Indian edtech and test-prep ecosystem. Here’s a crisp analysis from a strategic and financial perspective: Strategic Synergies 1. Complementary Strengths: Allen’s expertise lies in traditional classroom-based test preparation, particularly for medical and engineering entrance exams. Unacademy, on the other hand, thrives in the online learning space with a robust platform for competitive exams like UPSC, GATE, and CAT. This acquisition could enable Allen to leapfrog into the digital domain, combining its strong offline brand equity with Unacademy's tech-enabled scalability. 2. Market Expansion: For Unacademy, this deal provides a chance to stabilize its business model and access Allen’s loyal customer base in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, which are crucial growth markets for edtech. Conversely, Allen can leverage Unacademy’s digital infrastructure to reduce its dependence on physical centers. Financial Challenges 1.Valuation Dynamics: Unacademy’s revenue grew 80% to ₹719 crore in FY22, but its losses also ballooned by 85% to ₹2,848 crore, reflecting unsustainable cash burn. The valuation of $800 million implies a significant markdown from its previous $3.4 billion valuation. 2. Cost Concerns: While Unacademy has implemented cost-cutting measures (e.g., workforce reduction and marketing cuts), its heavy reliance on educator payouts and ESOP liabilities remains a challenge. Allen must carefully integrate operations to prevent these losses from eroding its profitability. Broader Implications for Edtech 1. Consolidation in Edtech: This deal underscores the industry’s shift from growth-at-any-cost to sustainable scaling. It may set a precedent for more M&A activity as players like Byju’s(Aakash) and Vedantu reassess their operations amid funding crunches. 2. Hybrid Learning Models: A successful merger could validate hybrid models combining online and offline approaches, setting the tone for the next wave of education delivery in India. Key Considerations - Can Allen absorb Unacademy’s financial strain without diluting its core profitability? - Will the integration address the growing competition from other edtech giants like Byju’s, or create conflicts in operational strategies? This acquisition has the potential to redefine the test-prep landscape if executed strategically. But as with any merger, the devil lies in the details of integration. thoughts? Unacademy ALLEN #edtech #acquisition #merger #startup #education

8

1 Comment

Continuing on my posts on Higher Education in Technology in India: (3/n) Staggering revenue numbers for #jee coaching institutes in India: Allen Revenue (FY 23) - 2300 Cr PhysicsWallah (FY23 revenue) - 800 Cr+ FIITJEE revenue (FY23) - 550 Cr Vidyamandir Classes Revenue (FY23) - 100-500 Cr Resonance (FY23) - 100-500 CR With 14L+ students giving #jeemains and coaching starting 2 years earlier for majority and for some even 4 years earlier, the captive audience for this industry is 40-50L students in their teens. Looking from a student's lens, how much pressure a student has to go through for this very high stake game (especially for those whose parents could barely manage the fee). #KotaFactory gives a glimpse (with some entertainment lens) of what a student goes through. Multiple suicides (now even reported in mainstream media) are testament to the psychological pressure a student is going through. And after all this, if you do not get into #iit (<3% chance of making it), is it all over? I myself have worked hard for my own IIT admissions back in the day. That rigour taught me a lot too. However, since it all ended with a success, it is hard for me to exactly fathom what one goes through when apparently it does not culminate with a success. Most of my friends say that they do not want their kids to go through all that struggle and spoil their teens. I often wonder myself what is good for my own kids - I surely want them to learn that life is not easy; success is not served on a platter (or tastes as well if it does come easy); hard work is necessary (and often is more important than innate smartness) and learning is life long (especially in this world where technology is changing so fast). Amongst all this, being empathetic and kind to people around you (that only comes with having a mental peace) is very critical. How do we democratise this culture of life long learning (with inherently embedded hard working attitude in it) along with a balance of mental peace - at scale, for many of the young population that India has to offer for decades to come? (Older posts on this thread are in comments)

65

10 Comments

Most EdTech companies, like Byju’s, are struggling due to excessive spending outweighing their revenue. They often burn through their funds without achieving proportional returns. This mismanagement leads to wasted investments and financial instability. Effective cost management and sustainable growth strategies are crucial for the longevity and success of EdTech ventures.

3

We probably have all our focus on the new customers, to bring in new leads and convert them there is one research that tells us it cost us 6 x Money . than to retain an old one that means if your new customer acquisition is about Rs 6000 then to retain the old customer you are spending only Rs 1000 Now which is more profitable deal ? there is no much we can learn from that old kirana stores (Hindi ) , Malikai (Tamil) , Palacharaku kada (Malayalam) , Grocery store in English The folk knows how important his customer is , and therefore services for even a small bar of soap , he will send a person to deliver Because he knows how important it is to retain the old customer , because each customer means Rs 10,000 per month and Rs 1,00,000 for an year Which means into 10 that much in an year Why cant larger organisations , learn from this grocery stores? Don't we see all sales meetings , basically focus on how many new customers or potential customers have been met, or potential customers have been met number of acquisitions happening ? no one is bothered about no of customers retained? Where as it is our old customer , that is really a gold mine or a diamond mine Constantly , consistently profitable , so why dont we add this new metric to our review ? So lets add , how many old customers became disloyal Sharing a poster too for you to have a look Tell me a brand that you have been loyal to and why and have you ever made a switch ? Thanks to Sanjay ji for your insights and the sole reason why i am writing this - Much respect you sir #CustomerRetention #CustomerLoyalty #BusinessStrategy #SalesTips #CustomerExperience #BusinessGrowth #CustomerSuccess #RetentionStrategy #CustomerService #MarketingStrategy #ClientRetention #SalesAndMarketing #CustomerValue #BrandLoyalty #SalesGrowth

13

8 Comments