A multi-faceted platform shaping the future course of Education, Healthcare, and Homes…
“Empowering futures through education, innovation, and a commitment to social good—where knowledge meets impact.”
Many institutions contribute to society, but only a few create a lasting impact. Entrepreneur Outlook is always in constant strides to bring the contribution of such institutions to the limelight. This time, The Ajeenkya D Y Patil Group is being featured on our cover page owing to its determination to change the world with the power of innovation and new-age perspectives. The group is driven by visionary leadership that sees the world through the lens of opportunities, possibilities, and untapped potential. We sat down for a one-on-one conversation with Dr Ajeenkya D Y Patil— Chairman and Chancellor, Mrs. Pooja Patil – Chairperson, and Ish Patil – VP – Corporate Affairs.
Many lesser-known facts were shared by the trio in talks with us regarding Ajeenkya D Y Patil Group and its phenomenal journey. Let’s delve into:
THE BUSINESS PORTFOLIO
Ajeenkya DY Patil group is part of D Y Patil Group which is established in 1983. It is well-regarded for its incomparable portfolio comprising a diverse ecosystem dedicated to nurturing education, healthcare, hospitality, infrastructure, media, and philanthropy. In this phenomenal journey, the group has established over 200 higher education institutions, 8 universities, and 45 K-12 schools across India and Belgium. The group pioneered the private education sector with its unique educational model and vision to create a generation of evolved minds. Apart from their contribution to the education sector, their impact makes a difference in skill development initiatives, cutting-edge research centers, and digital learning ecosystems.
They also operate in superspecialty hospitals, real estate ventures, digital learning platforms, film production, and social impact initiatives. As per Dr Ajeenkya D Y Patil, “Our commitment to innovation is exemplified through our Hyflex Learning model in GoSchool, which blends modern digital learning with personalized teaching. Our group has pioneered industry-integrated learning by embedding experiential education, design thinking, and disruptive technologies into its academic framework. We have redefined higher education with futuristic research centers, AI & blockchaindriven education models, and the strategic expansion of D Y Patil International Schools globally.”
ALTERING THE CONVENTIONAL LEARNING PROCESS
Mrs. Pooja Patil passionately spoke about the group’s unwavering commitment to reshaping education, breaking away from traditional learning methods to create a more human-centered, future-ready approach. She emphasized that the administration has always championed knowledge-driven innovation, ensuring that education evolves with the needs of tomorrow. “We are not just educating students; we are shaping visionaries. Through initiatives like our career-focused GoLearn and groundbreaking global research collaborations, we are redefining what quality and accessibility in education truly mean.
Our emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, real-world problem-solving, and technology-driven pedagogy isn’t just setting new standards—it’s inspiring a revolution in academic excellence,” she declared with conviction.
GETTING A LEADING EDGE IN THE INDUSTRY
Ish Patil spoke with passion about what sets the group apart, emphasizing their fearless approach to evolving education. “We are never afraid to change,” he said, explaining how they constantly refine their curriculum to stay aligned with industry demands. To ensure students receive a truly global perspective, the group actively forges strategic international collaborations while embracing AI and automation to create personalized learning experiences. But their vision extends far beyond education. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us—it’s a responsibility,” Ish shared, highlighting their expansion into healthcare, hospitality, and media to ensure long-term financial resilience.
At the heart of their forward-thinking approach lies the Innovation Lab & Research Centers, where tireless efforts are dedicated to developing breakthrough solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives. “For us, innovation isn’t about the future—it’s about transforming the present,” She affirmed.
KEY MARKERS IN THE JOURNEY OF INNOVATION
The Ajeenkya D Y Patil Group (ADYPG) has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation across multiple sectors. In education, Ajeenkya D Y Patil University (ADYPU) became the first institution in India to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Global Policy Institute (GPI), Washington D.C., in January 2025. Furthering its dedication to cutting-edge education, ADYPU launched the Centre of Excellence for NextGen Space Technology in September 2024.
This center provides state-of-the-art facilities and structured programs, including short-term certificate courses and customized training for defense personnel, focusing on advancements in space technology and defense applications. Beyond education, ADYPG has diversified into sectors like healthcare, hospitality, and Real Estate, reflecting a strategic vision to create new concepts and approaches across various fields. This diversification not only showcases the group’s innovative endeavors but also ensures financial resilience and a broad societal impact.
WHERE SUSTAINABILITY IS NOT JUST A COMPLIANCE
For the Ajeenkya group, sustainability is never seen as business compliance but has been ingrained in the ethos since its inception. The thought leadership at the group has always been devoted to the social good, which is visible from their initiatives like the Zodiac Foundation. The establishment actively contributes to healthcare and education for underprivileged communities. Not only contributing to communities, the group’s social impact extends to establishing green infrastructure, keeping environmental health in mind. “We have green infrastructure in our campuses and real estate projects, promoting environmental consciousness.
Our universities and schools actively participate in sustainable development research, focusing on climate action, renewable energy, and circular economy models,” quoted the leaders.
THE MEASURABLE IMPACT
The impact generated by the company extends to benefiting over 200,000 students and families from their unique educational programs. Not only that, Zodiac Foundation provides healthcare and education assistance to several marginalized communities. The super-specialty hospitals established by them serve thousands with state-of-the-art medical care. The institution’s adoption of green campus initiatives to reduce carbon footprints across educational and residential projects is commendable. Also, there is a huge focus on a sustainability-aligned curriculum to instil environmental responsibility in the upcoming leaders.
LEADERSHIP THAT NURTURES ALL
We asked the leadership of the group to share their philosophy. To this, they responded that they are driven by Shri Satya Sai Baba’s principle of ‘Love All, Serve All.” For the implementation of this philosophy, they ensure that everyone follows transparent governance and socially responsible business practices. The integration of ethical AI practices in education and research incorporates gender equality, inclusivity, and social impact in their institutional policies. Every step the leadership takes towards making education accessible and healthcare equitable seals their reputation as a trusted institution across the industrial sector.
THE FUTURE OUTLOOK
Over the next five years, the Group envisions a significant expansion across education, healthcare, real estate, and emerging industries. This includes the global growth of D Y Patil International Schools, the rise of GoLearn and GoSchool as pioneers in hybrid learning, advancements in AI-driven education and research, and the development of new healthcare and real estate ventures. Additionally, Ajeenkya D Y Patil University (ADYPU) aims to establish itself as India’s leading research-driven university with global recognition. To achieve these ambitious goals, the group is making strategic investments in technology, partnerships, and talent development.
At ADYPU, an emphasis on experiential learning, design thinking, and interdisciplinary education enhances student employability. Meanwhile, GoSchool bridges the gap between traditional schooling and real-world job skills through a career-focused curriculum. The group actively fosters strategic international collaborations to provide students and faculty with global exposure. Partnerships with leading universities facilitate exchange programs, joint research, and access to international best practices.
• Healthcare
The group’s diversification into healthcare ensures financial resilience while advancing medical innovation. Investments in super-specialty hospitals aim to provide state-of-the-art medical care, while AI-driven diagnostics and imaging services enhance precision and efficiency. Collaborations with biotech and pharmaceutical research units foster breakthroughs in personalized medicine. AI is also revolutionizing patient care and hospital operations. AI-driven management systems streamline workflows, reducing waiting times and optimizing hospital efficiency. Predictive analytics in diagnostics aid in the early detection of diseases, leading to improved treatment outcomes.
• Hospitality & Infrastructure
The group’s real estate and hospitality ventures focus on sustainable and smart infrastructure. Ajeenkya Towers, is a real estate project, is designed for modern community living with eco-friendly solutions. Meanwhile, hospitality brands like The Communion , DonMai are expanding to offer unique culinary and experiential dining concepts.
• Smart infrastructure plays a pivotal role in the group’s expansion plans. AI-powered energy management systems and green building technologies ensure sustainability in real estate projects, while automation enhances guest experiences in hospitality
• Media & Entertainment
Recognizing the potential of digital content and emerging storytelling formats, the group is expanding into film, media, and entertainment. Trancefx Studios Pvt. Ltd. is leveraging advanced production techniques to create commercially viable films, while investments in digital content, animation, and virtual reality entertainment are positioning the company as a key player in next-generation storytelling.
• Philanthropy & Social Impact
Beyond business expansion, the group prioritizes sustainability and social impact as core elements of its strategy. The Zodiac Foundation leads initiatives in education and healthcare for underprivileged communities, while ADYPU promotes gender sensitization, research ethics, and social entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the group is investing in research aligned with climate action and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
PIECE OF ADVICE FOR THE BUDDING ENTREPRENEURS
As the leaders signed off from the conversation, they shared a few words of wisdom advising entrepreneurs on how to build a brand from scratch: “Focus on innovation with impact rather than short-term trends. Adopt a researchdriven approach to business scalability and technological disruption. Build a strong ethical foundation where trust is the key to longevity. Also, don’t forget to leverage technology and data-driven insights to stay ahead in the industry. And last but not least, adaptability is crucial—embrace change and continuously evolve.
