Entrepreneurs
Preeti Rani Transforming Learning into Fun and Excitement for Kids
Preeti Rani journey from an electrical engineering graduate at IIT Roorkee to a passionate education entrepreneur is a testament to her unwavering commitment to providing enriching learning experiences for children. After over a decade in the semiconductor sector, Preeti embarked on a mission to offer children the kind of personalized, hands-on learning she cherished during her own childhood. Alongside her friend Komal Arora, she began organizing weekend workshops for kids in 2012, setting the stage for the birth of MerryGoLearn in Bengaluru a year later.
A Vision of Personalized Learning:
Preeti was motivated by her belief that traditional education often adopts a one-size-fits-all approach that doesn’t cater to each child’s unique learning style. At MerryGoLearn, the focus was on creating personalized, contextual, and experiential learning opportunities for children aged four to twelve. The initial subjects were science and mathematics, with English being added later to the curriculum.
The duo meticulously designed hands-on activities for each class, ensuring that children eagerly anticipated their next session. In addition to their core offerings, they established collaborations with educational institutions, organized events like summer camps in schools, and began expanding their footprint.
Diversification and Profitability:
In 2018, MerryGoLearn diversified its portfolio by venturing into the events sector. The company started organizing brand activation and corporate events, broadening its reach and impact.
By the following year, MerryGoLearn achieved profitability through cost-efficient operations, strategic geographical hiring, and bulk procurement. This success allowed them to open three additional centres in Bengaluru in 2020. The company also introduced supplementary products, including the LIPI Phonics Readers—a set of 60 decodable books featuring interactive activities, songs, and engaging worksheets.
Adapting to the Pandemic:
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, MerryGoLearn swiftly adapted by shifting its classes online. This transition, from primarily serving B2B clients to targeting B2C customers, proved successful in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Additionally, the company adjusted its focus from students in kindergarten through class 10 to children from kindergarten to class 5. This strategic pivot enabled them to continue delivering high-quality education despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Future Endeavours:
Preeti envisions MerryGoLearn‘s future to include the launch of an English literacy program for children and the development of an app tailored for teachers and caregivers. Over the next three years, the company aims to reach 100,000 students aged 5 to 8 through its online classes. Their goal is to establish the LIPI Phonics Readers as recognized curricular content for early learners in schools.
However, Preeti acknowledges the challenges of insufficient systems, automation, and technology utilization for data-driven marketing. She views participation in the Xcelerator Bangalore program as a valuable opportunity to address these challenges, optimize their product and services, enhance market-fit alignment, and refine marketing strategies for user acquisition.
Preeti Rani’s dedication to transforming learning into a joyful and engaging experience for children reflects her commitment to nurturing young minds. MerryGoLearn, under her leadership, continues to make a meaningful impact on the future of education, one personalized and fun-filled class at a time.