We had the privilege of hosting a special guest, Mr. Atul Khosla on The Journey with Simarpreet Singh Arul is the Founder and Vice-Chancellor of Shoolini University and his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, to studying at IIT Kanpur and working at McKinsey & Company showcases remarkable resilience and vision.
Atul shares valuable insights on the future of education in India and how he transformed Shoolini into the #1 private university in the country. His story goes beyond personal success; it reflects a deep commitment to building a brighter future for generations to come.
From IIT to McKinsey: A Journey of Growth
“Growing up in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, cracking engineering exams was a significant goal, and IIT Kanpur became my dream destination. Adjusting to the new environment was challenging, especially with my limited English, but thanks to my roommates, who only spoke English, I adapted quickly. While I wasn’t a top student at IIT, earning around a “6-pointer” GPA, a talk by Arun Shourie on Six Sigma sparked a passion for perfection within me. However, I soon realised that engineering wasn’t my true calling.”
“After a tough stint at a tech job in Bombay, where I struggled with coding, I decided to pursue an MBA. Attending Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) marked a turning point for me. My skills in mathematics and research grew, giving me the confidence I needed. Eventually, I joined McKinsey, where my journey took an unexpected yet rewarding direction. Though my path wasn’t linear, each challenge helped shape me and taught me the value of resilience and following my passions.”
Culture at McKinsey: A Platform for Excellence
“McKinsey’s culture is what truly shaped my career. Beyond being a prestigious consulting firm, McKinsey offers an environment that demands excellence. By the time one is hired, they’ve already gone through intense filtration—via top institutions like IIT, IIM, and a highly competitive recruitment process. But the culture inside McKinsey is what sets it apart. Quality is non-negotiable, and every individual is expected to deliver the best.“
“McKinsey retains only top talent, which keeps everyone sharp and competitive. The teamwork-driven environment fosters high professionalism, with an emphasis on values like honesty and integrity. Working directly with CEOs like Ratan Tata and Mr. Oberoi as a young consultant was an unmatched experience, building my skills and confidence. McKinsey is truly a magical place to grow, offering the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and shape transformative solutions.“
Dreams of a Small-Town Boy
“Being a boy from Solan, my connection to the mountains has always been deep. After graduating from IIT and completing my MBA, I travelled the world, working with prestigious consulting firms like McKinsey. However, the desire to return to my roots never left me. When the opportunity arose to contribute to my hometown through Shoolini University—founded by my father—it felt like the perfect chance to blend global experiences with local values.“
“This return was more than a career move; it was a personal journey. I wanted to give back to the community that had shaped me, and through Shoolini, I could make that vision a reality. My father’s bold decision to start Shoolini University in Solan laid the foundation for my return and our collective dream of contributing to India’s education system.“
How Shoolini Was Founded
“Shoolini University was born out of my father’s visionary leadership. After retiring as a senior advisor to the government in 2004, he decided to establish a university, even though he had little financial backing. With only ₹20 lakh from his gratuity and an ambitious plan requiring ₹80 crores, we embarked on the journey to create something special.“
“Named after the Goddess of Solan, Shoolini Mata, the university was set up to symbolize excellence. Despite initial challenges, support from family and partners helped us push forward. In 2006, we set a visionary goal to become a top 200 global university by 2022. Today, we are proud to be among the top universities globally, ranked #2 in India and #1 among private institutions. Shoolini’s success is a testament to our mission of providing quality education in a “not-for-profit” model, focusing on academic excellence rather than financial gain.“
Indian Education System: The Need for Transformation
“The Indian education system is often rigid and focused on conformity, especially from the schooling level. I joke that by the time students reach higher education, they’ve already been through 15 years of “educational abuse.” The current system creates followers rather than leaders, pushing compliance over creativity and critical thinking. There’s a real risk that India could become the “E-clerk” of the world, producing people who follow instructions rather than innovators.“
“While good schools exist, the challenge lies in smaller towns and villages where education remains stereotypical. Fortunately, with the new education policy and ongoing reforms, there’s hope for positive change. In higher education, I foresee a major transformation in the next 5-8 years, driven by technology and innovation. The traditional four-year degree model is already being questioned, and institutions like Shoolini are well-positioned to lead this revolution.“
“Drawing inspiration from ancient universities like Takshila and Nalanda, Shoolini is embracing technology and global collaboration to create a new model for higher education—one that is inclusive, innovative, and future-ready.“
India in 2047: A Golden Future
“Looking ahead to the next 20-25 years, I believe India is poised to reclaim its status as the “Golden Bird.” With favourable economic conditions, a young and dynamic demographic, and a promising global environment, India is set for success by 2047. I often tell my students that if they stay focused, avoid bad habits, and maintain a sane head on their shoulders, success and wealth are inevitable in the rising Indian economy.“
“However, to achieve this vision, India must prioritise peace, avoid social and civil strife, and uphold core values of honesty, integrity, and hard work. Our education system, in particular, needs a shift away from makeshift solutions and toward a mindset of perfection. If we can foster these changes, India will not just succeed but thrive as a nation of happiness and prosperity by 2047.“
“I see places like Solan prospering, and North India, especially Chandigarh, transforming into innovation hubs akin to Silicon Valley. Shoolini University will continue to play its part, driving excellence in education and standing alongside global institutions like Harvard. With a shared passion for nation-building and a dedication to collective growth, India’s future is bright, full of hope, and beyond our wildest expectations.“
Conclusion
Atul Khosla’s journey, from a small-town boy in Solan to a global leader in education, exemplifies resilience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the impact of quality education, and the importance of giving back to one’s roots.
Through Shoolini University, he has redefined higher education in India, proving that world-class institutions can thrive outside metropolitan cities. His vision for India in 2047 is one of innovation, integrity, and boundless potential—a future where education empowers individuals, communities prosper, and India shines as a global leader.
As we look ahead, Atul Khosla’s journey serves as an inspiration to dream big, embrace challenges, and work towards a brighter, more promising tomorrow.
🎥 Watch the entire conversation on YouTube
🔗Explore more inspiring stories and thought-provoking conversations here