Pune Organisation’s Innovative Education Model Garners National Acclaim at CSR & ESG Summit
PUNE – Friends Union for Energising Lives (FUEL), a Pune-based organisation renowned for its groundbreaking work in education and its strategic deployment of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for institutional development, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘CSR Times 2026’ Award. The accolade was presented at the 13th National CSR and ESG Summit, a significant event that brought together industry leaders and policymakers to discuss the critical role of responsible businesses in building an inclusive India.
The award, presented by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, provides national recognition for FUEL’s distinctive educational model, aptly named ‘Corporate Giving and Naming Schools’. This innovative approach allows corporate entities to actively participate in the creation of sustainable educational infrastructure, distinguishing it from traditional short-term CSR initiatives.
The summit, held under the central theme ‘Role of Responsible Businesses for an Inclusive India’, saw an impressive turnout of over 500 delegates in person, complemented by more than 2,500 online participants from across the country. The broad attendance underscores the growing importance of CSR and ESG principles in India’s corporate landscape.
Representing FUEL at the esteemed ceremony were Dr. Prachi Ahirav, Head of Department, Faculty of Management, and Sonali Ghongade, Finance Officer, who graciously accepted the award on behalf of the organisation.
Founded in 2007 as a modest career guidance service, FUEL has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into the ambitious FUEL SkillTech and Entrepreneurship University. This ambitious undertaking is primarily funded through CSR funding, making it a unique and pioneering endeavour within the Indian higher education sector. The establishment of an entire university through CSR contributions is a testament to FUEL’s innovative vision and the strong support it has garnered from the corporate world.
At the heart of FUEL’s success is its ‘Education Giving and Adoption Model’. This ingenious framework encourages corporate companies and philanthropists to ‘adopt’ entire academic schools within the burgeoning university. In return for their significant investment, these entities are given the distinct privilege of naming the adopted schools after themselves. This symbiotic relationship not only provides a sustainable funding mechanism but also fosters a sense of ownership and long-term commitment from corporate partners.
By channeling CSR funds into permanent educational infrastructure, FUEL is effectively transforming what are often temporary charitable contributions into enduring assets. This strategic redirection of resources is anticipated to have a profound and lasting impact. The model is poised to provide access to quality education for decades to come, particularly benefiting first-generation learners, children of farmers and defence personnel, and women and youth from economically weaker sections of society. FUEL’s holistic approach promises to empower these underserved communities, bridging educational gaps and fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for India.
