Education ·
Founded on 22 May 2022, Urja IIT Academy is a grassroots education initiative born when a group of ex-Fergussonians chose to leave secure academic careers in Pune and work in Akole, an Adivasi taluka in the Sahyadri foothills of Ahilyanagar district. The journey began with Dr. Sushil N. Benke conducting a summer science lecture series for just 7 students (Grades 3–9) at a Zilla Parishad school. The enthusiasm of students and strong parental engagement inspired a permanent shift to Akole, laying the foundation for Urja IIT Academy. By June 2022, structured JEE/NEET Foundation programs were launched. Mr. Rahul Deshmukh and Mrs. Samiksha Kanade-Deshmukh supported the initiative by travelling weekly from Pune for a year before relocating in June 2023, leaving faculty positions at leading engineering institutions. A flagship initiative, the Sunday Science Club, brings hands-on STEM learning to rural students through experiments, DNA modeling, robotics workshops, national institute visits, international guest lectures, and large-scale challenges. The program has reached 30+ schools and engaged 500+ students, building early awareness of careers in science and technology. Impact & Achievements * 300+ student admissions to premier institutes including NITs, COEP, VJTI, VIT, PCCOE, Cummins, and NFSU * Successful organization of National Education Expo 2025, among the first of its kind in rural India, featuring leading institutions across science, technology, humanities, design, and management Urja IIT Academy is grateful to Ms. Suparna Sardesai for her continued guidance and encouragement. Core Team Dr. Sushil N. Benke (Director) | Mr. Rahul Deshmukh (Head – Academics) | Mrs. Samiksha Kanade-Deshmukh (Head – Talent Management) | Mrs. Lalita Benke (HR Lead) and a dedicated team of STEM, language, outreach, and student-engagement professionals. At Urja IIT Academy, we believe talent is universal—opportunity should be too.