Mr. Digambar Jagtap | IFAS EduTech
The Indian EdTech industry is experiencing phenomenal growth, fueled by a burgeoning internet population and a growing demand for accessible and flexible learning solutions. EdTech companies need to constantly innovate and adapt to stay ahead of the curve.
IFAS EduTech Pvt. Ltd. stands as India’s No. 1 Edtech company for Graduate, Post Graduate, and PSC Entrance Examinations. At the helm of IFAS’ operational excellence is Mr. Digambar Jagtap, the company’s COO. Founded in 2020, IFAS has helped over 50,000 students qualify for various national-level exams, including CSIR NET, UGC NET, GATE, SET, PSC, IIT JAM, GAT B, CUET PG, DBT, BARC, ICMR, JEST, TIFR, and many more.
In this exclusive interview for “The 10 Most Admirable COOs in India, 2024” edition, we’ll delve into Mr. Jagtap’s insights and life lessons, gleaning valuable knowledge for business leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs. Stay tuned as we explore Mr. Jagtap’s journey and the innovative strategies driving IFAS EduTech’s success in the dynamic world of EdTech.
Prime Insights: Brief us on the inception story of the company.
I noticed that many students struggled with the limitations of traditional classroom coaching. These courses can be very expensive, costing lakhs for just a 6 to 12 month program. This financial burden made it difficult for many students to even consider this option. On top of that, there were a number of logistical challenges. If a student got married, had to relocate for a better coaching opportunity, or even took a new job, they might have to miss out entirely on their classes.
That’s why I, Radheshyam Choudhary, Dr. Kailash Choudhary, and Dadasaheb Sondge founded IFAS Edutech. We saw an opportunity to provide high-quality online classes to graduate and postgraduate students. Our mission was to make sure that everyone had access to a great education, regardless of their financial situation, where they lived, or what was going on in their personal lives.
Prime Insights: How have you kept a balance between your personal life and your professional one?
As the COO of our Edtech company, balancing personal and professional life is essential. I achieve this by setting clear boundaries and priorities. I prioritize tasks and delegate effectively, allowing me to focus on both work and personal commitments. I also make time for hobbies, family, and self-care, which helps me recharge and stay productive at work.
Additionally, the motivation from providing the best quality education and seeing thousands of students qualify for national-level exams keeps me inspired and driven. Open communication with my team and flexible work arrangements further support this balance.
Prime Insights: Being a COO, is your story of struggle any different from others?
My journey is a lesson in resilience. Growing up with meager means and no family history of higher education, my path to success was laden with challenges. But I had a fire in my gut—a dream of a brighter future. So, I started at IFAS Offline as an associate, pouring my heart and soul into my work. Six years later, I wasn’t just climbing the corporate ladder; I was becoming COO of IFAS Edutech Pvt Ltd., which was not just a professional achievement but a personal triumph.
Every step of this journey has been a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering belief that no dream is too big to achieve. My story is one of hope, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Prime Insights: What kind of clients do you serve? Any special mentions?
As India’s leading EdTech company, IFAS Edutech empowers students across the country. We offer online classes for competitive exams like CSIR NET, UGC NET, GATE, SET, PSC, IIT JAM, GAT B, CUET PG, DBT, BARC, ICMR, JEST, TIFR, and more, reaching over 10 million students in 4000+ cities. From rural villages to metro centers, we cater to a diverse range of aspiring graduates. Every success story fuels our commitment to quality education and personalized learning.
Prime Insights: How do you keep up with the changing market trends?
The market moves fast, so staying ahead is crucial. We use a multi-pronged approach. First, constant research keeps us on top of student needs, new tech, and education trends. We’re also agile, so we can quickly adapt our offerings to what the market demands. Feedback is key, so we gather input from students, educators, and industry experts. To stay fresh, we partner with universities and embrace new tech like AI and data analytics. Finally, we invest in our team’s professional development to make sure they have the latest skills to tackle any market shift. By being nimble and proactive, we keep IFAS Edutech at the forefront of EdTech.
Prime Insights: Do you believe R&D is essential for the growth of the company?
Absolutely! In this fast-paced industry, R&D is the key to staying ahead of the curve. By investing in R&D, we can develop new, innovative solutions and improve our existing offerings to better meet the needs of students and educators. It’s crucial to stay competitive, so R&D allows us to identify trends, technologies, and opportunities to keep us at the forefront. R&D is essential for our growth and success in EdTech.
Prime Insights: Do you feel COOs today face equal competition, or is there an ‘it’s okay’ attitude to it?
The EdTech space is a competitive battlefield! There’s no room for a laid-back attitude. COOs need a mindset of relentless improvement and innovation. New players are constantly entering the market, and technology is evolving at breakneck speed. I thrive in this fast-paced environment. It’s my job to find ways to streamline operations and leverage cutting-edge technology to win. The recent digital revolution has intensified competition. COOs must lead their teams with agility and foresight, leveraging the latest technologies to gain a competitive edge. It pushes me to think outside the box and drive the company to new heights.
Prime Insights: How necessary do you feel it is to keep your employees content? How do you ensure it?
At IFAS Edutech, happy employees are our priority. We go beyond just a paycheck. We foster a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We offer professional development opportunities and fun team-building activities to create a strong community. We recognize and reward great work to keep everyone motivated. It’s about building a happy team that’s passionate about our mission!
Prime Insights: Who do you look up to, and what do you convey further to the ones who look up to you?
Elon Musk’s vision and drive inspire me. Just like him, I believe in dreaming big and going after audacious goals. To those who follow me, I say this: work hard, be persistent, and don’t shy away from risks. Embrace challenges, push boundaries, and never settle for average. Let’s all be inspired to make a real difference!
Prime Insights: What are your thoughts on COOs participation in the entrepreneurial world?
I see COOs as secret weapons in the startup world. We’re not just about running the day-to-day. Our understanding of a startup’s operations makes us strategic assets. We can solve problems, navigate growth challenges, and bridge the gap between vision and execution. We’re here to fuel innovation and help startups reach their full potential.
Prime Insights: What message do you want to give to those COOs who give up on their dreams because of some stereotypes?
To COOs facing stereotypes: Don’t let them win! They’re just limitations, not truths. Use them as motivation to prove them wrong. Believe in yourself, find your cheerleaders, and stay focused. Success takes work, but you can crush any stereotype and reach your dreams.
Prime Insights: What does the company hold for it in the future (plans)?
We’re on a mission to bring quality education to everyone in India. Right now, we offer classes in 10 areas, but that’s just the beginning. In the next few years, we’ll expand to 50+ categories to serve a wider range of learners. Ultimately, we want to be the one-stop shop for online exam prep in India. We’ll provide top-notch content, expert instructors, and personalized learning to help students succeed. Stay tuned; we’re constantly innovating to make a lasting impact on Indian education.
Prime Insights: What milestones and achievements does the company boast of?
IFAS Edutech Pvt. Ltd. boasts several significant milestones and achievements that showcase our commitment to excellence in education:
- Expert educators: a curated team for top-notch guidance
- 50,000+ Success Stories: Proven results in national exams
- 10 Million+ Happy Students: A Trusted Platform for Education Needs
- Nationwide Presence: Reaches students in 4000+ cities
- Top Results: Effective teaching methods and materials
- AI-Powered App: Personalized and Effective Learning Experience
Prime Insights: How are you giving back to society (CSR)?
We’re passionate about giving back at IFAS Edutech. Through our Rashmi Welfare Society, we empower girls. We financially support families with newborn daughters and provide scholarships to ensure their education. We also offer free career training and build digital classrooms in government schools. It’s about creating a positive impact by empowering girls and promoting education. Visit rashmii.org to learn more about our CSR initiatives.
Prime Insights: Lastly, is there a message you would like to give to Prime Insights readers?
At IFAS Edutech, I’m committed to excellence in education. We empower students with the skills they need to thrive. Our innovative approach and dedicated educators provide a transformative experience that prepares them for the future. We believe education unlocks potential, and we’re here to make it accessible for all. Thank you for your support!
