Unacademy: A Mixed Experience for Educators

Transitioning into the world of education tech, particularly at Unacademy, can be both rewarding and fraught with challenges. This article explores the experiences of educators after joining this platform and the highs and lows they face.

The Dream Begins: Excitement and Early Opportunities

Initially, it may seem like a golden opportunity to join the ranks of educators at Unacademy. In August and September of 2018, the platform was buzzing with excitement and offered seemingly favorable packages. Educators like Roman Saini were hailed as success stories, leading to a flood of aspiring teachers joining to capitalize on the potential for fame and financial gain. The platform was positioned as a beacon of hope, especially for UPSC aspirants, offering free courses in subjects like Indian History and Polity.

The Reality Sets In: Targets, Responsibilities, and Perceived Inequality

The reality, however, is a different story. Instead of evaluating the quality and effectiveness of content, Unacademy primarily measures the quantity of content created. This led to a deluge of redundant and repetitive lectures, which may not always suit the learning needs of students. The management's strict targets and lack of flexibility mean that educators are often pressed to meet impossible deadlines. For instance, an educator might be instructed to create 10 lessons a day, each between 13-15 minutes long, even for topics that require less time.

Another issue lies in the referral code and revenue generation. Educators are encouraged to refer more students to increase their earnings, but the platform often fails to provide clear guidelines or support mechanisms for achieving these goals. This can create a sense of frustration and even bullying. Sometimes, the platform’s team would question the views on the classes taught by educators, or even claim that they are not generating enough revenue, leading to further stress and pressure.

Behind the Scenes: Policies and Business Models

The business model of Unacademy is also under scrutiny. While the platform prides itself on providing free digital content to aspirants, it has since shifted towards commercialization. This includes advertisements on TV channels, newspaper endorsements, and celebrity sponsorships. For educators, this means that the focus is no longer on creating value but on meeting the demands of the platform blindly.

Worse still, there are instances where educators face intimidation and legal threats if they decide to leave the platform. For example, an educator who attempted to move to another online edutech portal was threatened with legal action for copyright infringement. Other cases involve the unauthorized sharing of content by the platform, further eroding trust and loyalty.

Ledership and Management Issues

The leadership at Unacademy seems to be struggling with clear decision-making. Mr. Gaurav Munjal appears to be indecisive, with Roman Saini and other lower-level executives often dictating the stance on various issues. This lack of clarity and consistent vision has led to a confusing and often frustrating experience for educators.

Advise to Gaurav Munjal would be to surround himself with competent executives and professionals who can provide strategic guidance rather than relying on flatterers and yes-men. This change is crucial for restoring the integrity and reputation of the platform.

Personal Reflections and Final Words

While Unacademy may initially seem like a viable platform, the sheer volume of redundant content and the sometimes unrealistic expectations can lead to a demotivating experience. Educators should consider their time and resources carefully and invest in platforms that align better with their values and goals.

It's important to note that the views expressed in this article are personal and based on individual experiences. The overall trajectory of the platform and its impact on the education sector is a topic of ongoing debate.

Thank you for reading.