In an age where strong communication skills are no longer just a “nice to have,” their importance is clear. Influential figures like Warren Buffett have transformed their careers through mastering this essential art. Buffett, notoriously introverted in his youth, took a public speaking class from Dale Carnegie, considering it a pivotal moment that changed his life trajectory. Likewise, from Steve Jobs’ iconic speeches that captivated millions to Elon Musk’s ability to simplify complex ideas for diverse audiences, history is replete with examples that underscore one truth: for all A person with high ambitions, effective communication skills are essential.

Yet the majority of individuals – adults and children – find themselves struggling with their inability to articulate their thoughts. According to Udemy’s Q2 2024 Global Learning Index, Indian learners are increasingly focusing on communication and problem-solving skills to grow.

In response to this gap, edtech startup PlanetSpark is addressing global communication skills needs with early school intervention. The platform offers development programs for students aged 4 to 17, with courses primarily focused on public speaking and creative writing. With operations in 16 countries, the edtech curriculum is designed to develop children’s skills in ways that traditional schooling often overlooks.

Founded by XLRI Hostel partners Kunal Malik and Maneesh Dhooper, PlanetSpark combines live classes, interactive group sessions and self-paced activities under its ‘Learn, Practice, Perform’ framework. What sets the platform apart, according to the founders, is its focus on applying communication skills in real-world settings, providing students with practical experiences to build their confidence from a young age.

Founder Kunal Malik highlights that hundreds of students trained on the platform have taken tangible steps in the field of communication. Oviya Singh, one of the child prodigies trained at PlanetSpark, is a four-time TEDx speaker, passionate about soil conservation. Another student, Ankita Ajay, ventured into storytelling by writing her first psychological thriller novel at the age of 11.

PlanetSpark students are trained through active participation in debate, creative writing exercises, and public speaking, often in real-world settings. In 2021, the communication skills-focused edtech launched Spark Tank, a Shark Tank spin-off in which students pitch their innovative ideas to investors. “The program aims to build self-confidence, foster critical thinking and improve creativity, which are crucial to becoming an effective communicator in the 21st century,” explains Malik.

To track student progress, PlanetSpark uses real-world assessments instead of traditional grades and grades. Students work toward tangible accomplishments, like giving a speech after 20 classes or participating in a debate after 30 classes. The goal is a TED Talk style presentation by the end of the program. “Every 10 courses, students are graded on seven key skills, and their average score is tracked and reported. This provides a scientific measure of their development. Additionally, we collect feedback from parents on their children’s increased participation and confidence in real-life situations,” added Malik.

Talking about the role of teachers in the success of school programs, Malik highlights that the company has built a community of 3,500 teachers with 3-7 years of teaching experience in schools or educational institutions. After a six-step hiring process, teachers take an online aptitude test before joining the team. “The test is designed to measure a candidate’s mastery of key skills and knowledge areas that are essential to success as a PlanetSpark teacher,” notes Malik.

PlanetSpark operates in the K12 segment and is backed by Prime Venture Partners. After a slowdown over the past two years, India’s edtech industry showed signs of recovery in 2024, highlighted by an uptick in venture capital funding that stood at $215 million through third quarter of this year. Now walking on the path of sustainable growth, PlanetSpark has also abandoned its focus on consumption-intensive growth and claims to have achieved profitability of Rs 128 crore ARR. The company claims to have delivered sustained cash flow profits in FY25, with corporate costs reduced from 70% to 37% and CAC from 45% to 27% over the past two years. Looking ahead, the edtech plans to expand to other geographies, age segments and product categories, offering courses covering 21st century skills.