Vidya Pratishthan: Crafting Professionals Through Excellence In Learning & Leaders In Practice
By Hon’ble Shri. Sharadchandraji Pawar, Founder President
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making significant strides in transforming the education system in India, reaching even its most remote areas. In rural India, AI is becoming increasingly accessible through innovative educational tools and platforms that cater to diverse learning needs. Usually, AI is always picturized and looked forward as Metro Level technology, but Vidya Pratishthan has firmly changed the way of seeing AI, where we have proudly changed the rural landscape. Our institute, ‘Vidya Pratishthan, Baramati’ is at the forefront of this revolution, pioneering efforts to embed AI deeply into rural education. By developing localized content and leveraging AI-driven solutions, we are bridging educational gaps and enhancing learning outcomes for students in these underserved regions. This technological advancement is not only making quality education more approachable but also reshaping the educational landscape of rural India, offering new opportunities for growth and development that were previously out of reach.
The visionary idea of Hon. Shri Sharadchandra Pawar, of introducing an English medium school, in the rural context, in 1972, responding to the needs of that period, to instigating Artificial Intelligence in the present context is the result of his broad vision, of the exemplary future of Rural India.
Vidya Pratishthan has been synonymous with educational excellence, having evolved from a modest two-room school into a sprawling 290-acre campus housing 29 institutions, nurturing over 30,000 students daily. It is now generating AI solutions tailored to the unique needs of rural India and creating a local talent pool for future AI initiatives.
The institution's success is a testament to the visionary leadership of Hon. Shri Sharadchandra Pawar and Hon. Shri Ajit Pawar, along with the dedicated guidance of the Management Committee. Their collective efforts have transformed what was once a desolate landscape into a thriving academic hub.
Comprehensive Education & Innovation
Vidya Pratishthan offers a diverse range of programs under one umbrella, including Architecture, Engineering, Information Technology, Law, and MBA, all adhering to university syllabi. Since its establishment in 1972, the institute has expanded its offerings to include cutting-edge experiential learning through its AI Centers. These include the Bharat Forge supported Center of Excellence (CoE) for Youth Development and the Centre of Excellence in Digital Manufacturing and Robotic Automation, focusing on Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Cloud Technologies, and the Internet of Things. These centers foster multi-disciplinary research, industry collaboration, and entrepreneurship among students.
Additionally, Vidya Pratishthan plans to introduce 10 new Centers covering fields such as AI, Data Science, Mathematics, English, and Ethical Values. The institution’s commitment to evolving with future trends is exemplified by its ongoing integration of AI and IoT in education. Architecture Institute features a Research and Consultancy Cell, collaborating with local authorities on urban and rural planning issues. The other departments have their settled labs and workshops which include Engineering, World class Moot court facility for Law, and specially curated 100-acre farms, for Biotechnology college, where they practice Organic farming, aquaculture and more. The institutes of Vidya Pratishthan have established Centers of Excellence that act as stepping stones for curious minds to dwell on and transform their ideas into reality, thus shaping global competent individuals
The campus boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, including AI Labs, workshops, construction yards, and specialized labs for various disciplines. Facilities like interactive spaces, sports courts, and a central library with 10,000 books enhance the student experience. Vidya Pratishthan is poised to strengthen its global ties with future collaborations, including potential partnerships with the University of Oxford. This comprehensive approach ensures that students receive world-class education and development opportunities, preparing them for global challenges and innovations.
Empowering Education through Scholarships
Scholarships are pivotal in facilitating student development at Vidya Pratishthan, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational progress. In alignment with the vision of Hon. Shri Sharadchandra Pawar, the President of the institution is dedicated to providing high-quality education to students from rural backgrounds and preparing them for national and international careers. VP offers a range of scholarships, including state and central government grants, and supports financially disadvantaged students through the Pawar Charitable Trust’s scholarship programs. Each year, 100-120 students benefit from these schemes, with dedicated programs for both girls and boys.
“Beyond financial support, we encourage students to engage in diverse activities such as national and international competitions, workshops, quizzes, debates, and sports. The institute also promotes participation in research competitions, paper presentations, and cultural events, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. This holistic approach aims to develop students' skills and competencies, equipping them for future challenges and opportunities”, highlights Hon’ble Shri.Sharadchandraji Pawar, President, Vidya Pratishthan.
Strengthening Education & Industry Connections
Vidya Pratishthan is deeply honored by its associations with several esteemed organizations, including B.G. Shirke Construction Technology Pvt. Limited, TATA Projects Limited, Adani Enterprises Ltd., and others like Finolex Cables Limited, Bajaj Group, and Serum Institute of India. These partnerships have significantly contributed to the institution’s growth and development, helping it emerge as a leading educational hub.
The collaboration with renowned market leaders has enabled Vidya Pratishthan to provide a well-rounded educational experience for its students. Timely study visits to various industries, guest lectures, and interactions with experts enhance students' learning and preparedness for their future careers. The ‘VP-Talks’ series, featuring eminent industry guests, further enriches the academic environment by facilitating knowledge exchange between students, faculty, and industry professionals.
In addition to academics, the institution places a strong emphasis on co-curricular and extracurricular activities. Students benefit from internships, site visits, case studies, and workshops, which help them gain practical insights and skills. The institution’s commitment to holistic development is reflected in its extensive range of activities, including techno-savvy laboratories, smart classrooms, and Centers of Excellence.
Vidya Pratishthan is dedicated to bridging the gap between industry requirements and academic training. By offering add-on courses and industry-aligned programs through the IBM Innovation Center for Education, the institute ensures that students are well-prepared for their professional careers. The focus on entrepreneurial spirit and self-reliance aligns with national goals for sustainability and technological advancement. The institution’s dedication to blending traditional values with modern scientific approaches is evident in its continuous efforts to integrate global trends and emerging challenges into its curriculum. Vidya Pratishthan’s recognition from the Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) highlights its contribution to scientific research and technological self-reliance, further boosting the morale and credibility of its various branches.
To sum it up, Vidya Pratishthan’s robust industry connections, innovative educational practices, and commitment to student development reflect its role as a prominent educational institution dedicated to shaping the future of its students and contributing to national and global advancements.