How does it feel to be listed in the 40 Under 40 club?
The experience has been humbling and I am honoured to be a part of this club. This is a testimony to all the efforts and hard work my team and I have put in to date in bringing our vision alive. I hope my achievement is able to open the pathway for many aspiring entrepreneurs who believe their vision can create a lasting impact.
What changes would you like to spearhead?
I have always been passionate about tech, women empowerment and education. With Practically, we have already set the ball in motion to bring a lasting change in the field of education putting India on the world map. I’d like to inspire more women to believe in themselves and bring their ideas to life. For women, who usually shy away from living their dreams, I’d like to mentor them to recognise their unique talents and find out how to share them with other women who may need guidance and inspiration.
Give us some insights on your current venture.
Practically is an outcome of deep-rooted insights based on several man-years of study around children’s learning and retention modes leading to the innovative use of new-age tech tools such as AR, Gamification etc. to provide an immersive learning experience for children. I along with my Co-founders Subbarao Siddabattula, Founder & CEO, and Ilangovel Thulasimani, Co-Founder & CTO launched Practically app in 2020.
What according to you is the need of the hour in the education ecosystem?
Digital adoption and blended learning are the biggest trends in the edtech space. The edtech sector has always been ahead of its time.
According to a report by PGA Labs and IVCA, India’s education sector is poised to grow from the current $117 billion to $225 billion by FY25. We believe that technology adoption in the education sector is yet to see its peak and the growth trajectory is likely to continue beyond the pandemic years.
Tell us about some of the challenges you have faced and how you overcame them?
While challenges such as adoption of the blended learning model, outdated or absence of hardware and digital infrastructure in schools and lack of IT skills among teachers prevail in the industry, we are already working alongside relevant stakeholders to become the most unique and comprehensive product in India and across the globe.