In this enlightening conversation, Rahul Lakhmani, the founder of SKIIFY, sits down with R. Chandra of Indian Startup Times to discuss his journey of creating a company dedicated to education and personal growth. From high-quality workshops to ad-free educational content for underprivileged students, Rahul’s initiatives speak to his passion for making a difference. The interview touches on his views on technology, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in business.

R. Chandra: Rahul, thank you for joining us today. To begin with, could you share how SKIIFY started and what inspired you to venture into education?

Rahul Lakhmani: Thank you, Chandra. When I was a student at IIT Bombay, we founded SKIIFY as a company offering workshops and training sessions. Initially our focus was on delivering high-quality sessions across industries and then IT and Business Consulting. Over time, we shifted our focus to education. This pivot happened because I felt a deep desire to make learning accessible and valuable for students from less privileged backgrounds. Our mission became centered on helping people through education and providing content that’s not just free but also ad-free.

R. Chandra: That’s incredible. Your stay at IIM Calcutta, engaging with students from Gen Z, has also been very impactful. Could you tell us more about your experience?

Rahul Lakhmani: Yes, I love interacting with students. I have joined IIM Calcutta for PhD in Organizational Behaviour area. IIM Calcutta has allowed me to connect with young minds in a way that keeps me grounded and forward-thinking. Their perspectives are so fresh, and it’s a two-way learning process. I was also understanding them in some ways – I study how they think, learn, and approach challenges. It’s fascinating to see how different this generation is from ours, particularly in how they use technology. With that real world research experience, after dropping out from IIM Calcutta, I was able to do more for improving education scenario in India and Gen Z students through my lectures, sessions and policy initiatives.

R. Chandra: Speaking of technology, what are your thoughts on its impact on learning, especially with AI and mobile devices becoming central to education?

Rahul Lakhmani: Technology is a double-edged sword. While it has enabled a vast amount of information to be at our fingertips, it’s overwhelming for young people. This constant stream of information can sometimes hinder their ability to think critically or solve problems creatively. I believe that, while AI can help in making education more efficient, we have to use it responsibly. AI should complement human abilities, not replace them. For example, in areas like counselling, you need human empathy, which AI cannot replicate.

R. Chandra: That’s a crucial point. On a related note, you’ve also been vocal about the Indian education system. Where do you think the system needs improvement?

Rahul Lakhmani: Our current exam structures are outdated and don’t align with the capabilities and aspirations of today’s students. We need a system that encourages creativity, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence rather than just rote learning and exam results. The focus should be more on developing students holistically, preparing them for real-world challenges. Gradual reforms are necessary, but I think we’re heading in the right direction.

R. Chandra: With AI and automation playing a bigger role in education, do you think this could be a double-edged sword for the industry?

Rahul Lakhmani: Absolutely. While automation in education can streamline many processes, we need to be careful not to over-rely on it. There are aspects of learning that require a human touch, like mental health services or career counselling. When we rely too much on technology, we risk losing that personal connection. So, I’m all for using AI in areas where it enhances learning and decision making, but we have to draw the line somewhere to preserve human interaction.

R. Chandra:That’s a fair point. I also wanted to touch on SKIIFY’s hiring and business culture. How do you approach recruitment, and what values are most important to your team?

Rahul Lakhmani: At SKIIFY, we believe in hiring people who align with our core values. Emotional intelligence and problem-solving abilities are key qualities we look for. It’s not just about the technical skills. We want people who are emotionally aware, who can connect with others, and who are genuinely motivated to grow alongside the company. Once they join, we focus on supporting their career aspirations and creating a people-centric work culture where empathy is at the core.

R. Chandra: That leads me to my next question—empathy in business. You’ve spoken about this being central to your philosophy. How do you ensure empathy is reflected in SKIIFY’s operations?

Rahul Lakhmani: Empathy is crucial for long-term success. Whether it’s employees, investors, co-founders, or customers, understanding their perspectives helps us make better decisions. It’s about negotiating with empathy and thinking beyond short-term gains. If you focus only on profits without considering the well-being of your stakeholders, you might see short-term success, but it won’t last. That’s why we always consider how our decisions will impact people, not just today but in the future as well.

R. Chandra: That’s a powerful approach, Rahul. Before we wrap up, is there any message you’d like to leave for budding entrepreneurs?

Rahul Lakhmani: Yes, I’d say—stay true to your values. There will be temptations to cut corners or chase quick wins, but building something sustainable requires patience and integrity. Focus on solving real problems, think long-term, and always prioritize people over profits. If you keep those principles in mind, success will follow.

In this thought-provoking conversation with Rahul Lakhmani, we’ve explored the intersection of technology, education, and business philosophy. Rahul’s emphasis on empathy, both in leadership and entrepreneurship, offers valuable insights for anyone looking to build a sustainable and people-oriented business. His dedication to enhancing education for underprivileged students and his cautious yet optimistic approach to technology demonstrate a thoughtful, holistic view of progress. As Rahul continues his journey with SKIIFY, it’s clear that his values will drive not only his company’s growth but also its positive impact on society.