In early 2000, Azim Premji Foundation set out to work in the field of elementary education in government schools across India. The Foundation hoped to contribute to improve the quality of education of India at a deep and institutional level in close partnership with the government. Over the years, the Foundation set up district-level institutes that worked to improve the capacity of teachers, school leaders, teacher educators and administrators in public education. A decade of grassroots work generated critical insights into the challenges and opportunities on the ground. The biggest need of the hour was for well-qualified professionals in the social sector. Azim Premji University was set up in response to this need in 2010. We began with two programmes in education and development , along with courses for working professionals that enhanced the capacity of those who already work in the field. Azim Premji University was founded in 2010, with the vision to contribute to the realisation of a just, equitable, humane and sustainable society. 1000 Short courses for working professionals 55% women students 50% students from small towns and rural areas

55% students on scholarships We now have postgraduate degrees in Education , Development , Economics and Public Health . We offer undergraduate degrees in social science ( Economics , Social Science ), science ( Biology , Chemistry , Environmental Science and Sustainability , Information Sciences , Mathematics and Physics ), and the Humanities ( English , History , and Philosophy ). We offer a dual degree in science and teacher education . We conduct more than 150 short courses for professionals every year, in the fields of education, development, policy, and governance across the country. Our Library aims to serve the teaching and research needs of our University community. It serves all students and active members of the Foundation and its partners: at the University, Field Institutes, and Philanthropy. We have conducted more than 1000 workshops for working professionals – teachers, teacher educators, development professionals and researchers alike. Our students come from diverse social backgrounds and are supported through our efforts to make education accessible. Over 3314 graduates from our programmes have gone on to create gradual but meaningful change in the social sector. Our faculty create and teach challenging and reflective curricula for the classroom, research, and field practice. Our Research Centre brings together individuals from across the University, and collaborates with other institutions in interdisciplinary teams. We address critical questions about India’s futures.