From IAS to EdTech Empire: Roman Saini’s Unacademy Nears $400 Million Acquisition by upGrad, Redefining India’s Online Learning Landscape
In what could be one of the most significant developments in India’s education technology sector, upGrad is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire Unacademy for an estimated $300–400 million. This potential merger marks a pivotal moment for Indian edtech, uniting two powerhouses driven by a shared vision of democratizing education.
From Civil Servant to Startup Trailblazer: Roman Saini’s Remarkable Journey
Few stories capture ambition and transformation quite like that of Dr. Roman Saini. A prodigy who cleared the AIIMS medical entrance at 16 and the UPSC Civil Services Exam at just 22, Saini chose to leave behind a secure government post to pursue a larger mission — making quality education accessible to all.
In 2015, he co-founded Unacademy, an online learning platform that soon became a household name among aspirants preparing for UPSC, IIT-JEE, NEET, and other competitive exams. What began as a humble YouTube initiative evolved into a billion-dollar startup, reshaping the way millions of Indians learn.
The upGrad–Unacademy Merger: A Defining Edtech Consolidation
The acquisition by upGrad, founded by entrepreneur and media mogul Ronnie Screwvala, represents a strategic convergence of two leading forces in digital education. Industry insiders suggest that the deal could be finalized within three weeks, signaling the beginning of a new era of consolidation and collaboration in India’s maturing edtech space.
Once completed, the merger will create one of the largest and most diverse education ecosystems in the country — combining Unacademy’s vast learner base and expert educators with upGrad’s robust technology, global partnerships, and focus on professional upskilling.
A Sharp Valuation Reset
The deal reportedly values Unacademy between $300–400 million (₹2,800–₹3,500 crore) — a stark contrast to its 2021 valuation of $3.44 billion (₹30,500 crore). Analysts view this correction as reflective of the broader recalibration in India’s post-pandemic edtech sector, where investor focus has shifted from hypergrowth to profitability and sustainability.
Despite the valuation drop, experts say the merger underscores a strategic pivot — consolidating capabilities, strengthening revenues, and expanding the edtech reach beyond test prep to holistic lifelong learning.
A Milestone for India’s Learners
For students, the deal promises wider access, better content integration, and more diverse learning pathways. Combining Unacademy’s pedagogical depth with upGrad’s career-oriented programs could reshape the learning experience for millions — from competitive exam aspirants to working professionals.
Roman Saini’s Enduring Impact
Roman Saini’s evolution from a doctor and IAS officer to an education visionary remains one of India’s most compelling entrepreneurial stories. His decision to step away from the civil services to empower learners digitally has inspired a generation of educators and innovators.
As Unacademy prepares for a new chapter under upGrad’s umbrella, Saini’s founding principle — that education should be accessible, affordable, and transformative — continues to define India’s edtech revolution.
In essence, the upGrad–Unacademy merger isn’t just a corporate deal — it’s a landmark in India’s education reform story, symbolizing the merging of purpose and innovation in shaping the future of learning.
