Byju’s gearing up for IPO in 9-12 months; to sharpen focus on India, says Divya Gokulnath

For a company, being the most valued startup in the country definitely brings about a sense of ease and contentment or that at least is the general perception. But Divya Gokulnath, the co-founder at Byju’s, simply can’t keep the lights off at work. She barely manages to set aside 30 minutes of the day for herself. At a time when the concept of edtech is gaining currency in India and learners and parents alike are more receptive to online classes, or a blended learning format for that matter, the opportunity becomes manifold and there is certainly a lot to be done. There is too much happening in the $21 billion valued company — big acquisitions, launch of new offerings like the recent physical tuition centres in India and most importantly, IPO preparations. The startup is planning to make a public debut in 9-12 months. “We are looking at both the possibilities — to either list in India or the U.S.,” says Gokulnath.

She has already firmed up the business goals for the next five years. “We will continue to create value in multiple dimensions, for learners everywhere. We have and we will continue to grow through both organic and inorganic routes,” says Gokulnath. India will continue to be a major focal point for the company as it chalks out a deeper expansion plan for the market. “We really have an opportunity to create a global champion coming out of India for edtech,” says Gokulnath.