Imagine a classroom where students don’t just memorize formulas but build and program robots that bring those concepts to life. That’s the vision driving Robofun Lab Pvt. Ltd. (RFL Academy). Co-founded by Ashwin Shah and Manoj Patel, this innovative startup is on a mission to revolutionize K–12 STEM education by giving young learners hands-on experience in robotics and coding. From humble beginnings in Rajkot, Gujarat, to expanding operations across India and into Saudi Arabia, RFL Academy is setting benchmarks in educational robotics.
A Founder’s Journey
Ashwin Shah, one of the co-founders, discovered his passion for teaching early. After completing his 10th grade, he started marking papers at a tuition center. This first taste of the classroom ignited a lifelong passion for helping students learn. During college, he taught Physics and Math, organized robotics competitions, and explored the potential of hands-on STEM education.
“While pursuing my Bachelor’s in Electronics and Communications, I also taught and organized tech fests, which opened my eyes to how exciting robotics could be,” Ashwin recalls.
Manoj Patel, with a background in IT security, complemented Ashwin’s enthusiasm for robotics education. Together, they founded RFL Academy in September 2016, driven by a shared mission to make STEM fun, hands-on, and accessible.
A Vision for Education
“Our vision is to enable children to learn math, science, and engineering in a fun, hands-on manner, preparing them for a world rapidly moving toward robotics, AI, and advanced technology,” Ashwin explains.
RFL Academy now operates nine robotics labs in India, collaborates with 22 partner schools, and is on the brink of launching a new lab in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This expansion makes RFL the first Indian robotics education startup with a physical international presence.
What Sets RFL Apart?
RFL Academy’s success lies in its original, copyrighted curriculum and methodical teaching approach. Each course is designed with specific learning outcomes, detailed textbooks, and rigorously trained coaches. The emphasis is on problem-solving rather than providing ready-made solutions.
“Our coaches thoroughly prepare for each challenge, solve it themselves first, and then empower students to tackle it. Learning comes before winning,” says Ashwin.
This philosophy has led RFL students to win over 100 national and 20+ international championships, including standout achievements like:
- Team Greenbots winning Gold at the 2022 World Robot Olympiad in Germany, making them the first Indian team to achieve this in 25 years.
- Team Sigma excelling at the FIRST Robotics Competition with accolades such as the Rookie All-Star Award and the Engineering Excellence Award.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite its success, RFL has faced challenges. Hiring and retaining skilled robotics coaches remains difficult, as few engineers view this as a long-term career path.
“There is no ready-made manpower available even today,” Manoj admits. “We’re working on creating a pipeline of talent through placement camps and training programs.”
The COVID-19 pandemic also posed significant hurdles, forcing physical labs to shut down. However, RFL quickly pivoted to online learning, enrolling over 1,800 students within six months of launching virtual classes. This adaptability also helped secure funding after presenting 75 pitches to potential investors.
Course Offerings
RFL Academy provides structured courses for students from grades 1 to 12, including:
- Hands-on Learning
- Core STEM and Robotics
- Basic Electronics
- Engineering Robotics
- Game and Animation with AI
- Mobile App Development with ML
- Python Programming with Certification
Students learn to build and code robots, design circuits, create CAD models, and develop AI solutions in a fun, engaging manner.
Student and Parent Testimonials
Testimonials reflect the transformative impact of RFL’s approach:
Looking Ahead
Expansion remains a priority for RFL Academy. With a strong foothold in India and Saudi Arabia, the founders plan to broaden their geographic reach and refine their online learning modules. Additionally, they aim to responsibly incorporate AI in classrooms and help students build standout STEM profiles.
“We’re committed to evolving with the times, helping students achieve their dreams, whether at the Ivy Leagues or top universities in India,” says Ashwin.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Ashwin’s advice to entrepreneurs:
- Stay Grounded: Understand your market from the grassroots level.
- Balance Vision and Finances: Financial prudence is as vital as big ideas.
- Resilience is Key: Learn from mistakes and keep moving forward.
“Work hard, hustle, and don’t give up. Nothing comes easy in life,” Ashwin emphasizes.
Call to Action
To explore RFL Academy’s courses, lab locations, or upcoming workshops, visit their website: www.robofunlab.com.
Connect with Ashwin Shah on LinkedIn for insights into the future of robotics and STEM education.
Robofun Lab’s journey is a testament to what passion, strategy, and resilience can achieve. Their innovative approach is shaping the next generation of problem-solvers and leaders, proving that the future of STEM education is here.