FUEL to Celebrate 20th Foundation Day and 2nd Convocation in Pune on October 24

Friends Union for Energising Lives (FUEL), a charitable organisation focused on education, employability and youth development, is set to celebrate its 20th Foundation Day alongside its second convocation ceremony on October 24, 2026, in Pune, Maharashtra.

According to the organisation’s announcement, Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been invited as the chief guest for the programme at FUEL SkillTech University in Bhugaon. The event will recognise graduates from the Postgraduate Management Batch of 2024–26 and participants in other certification programmes supported by corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The celebrations will also mark a significant phase in FUEL’s plans to expand skill-oriented higher education through its proposed FUEL SkillTech and Entrepreneurship University.

FUEL Marks Nearly Two Decades of Youth Development

Founded in 2007, FUEL works to improve access to education, scholarships and vocational training for young people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Its programmes aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and the practical skills required by employers.

According to figures shared by the organisation, FUEL has reached approximately one million young people since its inception, provided education to 2.93 lakh students and awarded 2,907 scholarships.

FUEL also reports a placement rate of more than 90 per cent and says that over 75 per cent of its learners are first-generation learners. These figures have been provided by the organisation and have not been independently audited for this report.

The foundation day and convocation will bring together students, educators, corporate representatives and other stakeholders to recognise the role of education and professional training in creating employment opportunities.

FUEL SkillTech University Plans Industry Partnerships

A key focus of the event will be FUEL’s plans to strengthen industry-linked education and expand opportunities in emerging sectors.

The organisation says it is working with SBI Foundation on a programme intended to provide skills training to 2,000 young people. Capgemini supports FUEL’s Digital Academy on its campus, according to the announcement.

FUEL also plans to develop Schools of Finance and Logistics in collaboration with Indian corporate partners. It is inviting expressions of interest from industry participants to develop educational programmes in emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, green skills and entrepreneurship.

These initiatives are intended to connect academic programmes with industry requirements and help students acquire practical skills for evolving employment markets.

University Inauguration Planned Subject to Dignitaries’ Availability

The programme is also expected to highlight the planned inauguration of FUEL SkillTech and Entrepreneurship University in Pune.

The organisation states that the university has been established through Maharashtra’s legislative framework for private skills universities, with the relevant 2026 amendment providing for its inclusion. The formal inauguration, however, remains subject to the availability of the dignitaries.

The proposed institution aims to promote skill-based, entrepreneurship-focused higher education and build on FUEL’s experience in education and training.

FUEL’s approach also incorporates philanthropic support and endowment funding. The organisation says its presence on the National Stock Exchange’s Social Stock Exchange is part of its efforts to support accessible education and skill development for underserved communities.

Chairman Highlights Focus on Employability and Entrepreneurship

Dr. Ketan Deshpande, Chairman and Vice Chancellor of FUEL SkillTech University, said the 20th Foundation Day would provide an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s work and the students who have benefited from its educational initiatives.

He said the convocation would recognise the achievements of graduating students and the contributions of those who supported their academic and professional development.

Deshpande added that the university’s development would help strengthen FUEL’s efforts in skill training, employability and entrepreneurship while creating more opportunities for young people to pursue meaningful careers.

FUEL Foundation Day and Convocation: Event Details

Event: FUEL’s 20th Foundation Day and 2nd Convocation Ceremony

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026

Time: 10:30 am onwards

Venue: FUEL SkillTech University, Forest Trails Township, Paud Road, Bhugaon, Pune, Maharashtra – 412115

Invited chief guest: Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Governor of Tamil Nadu

As FUEL approaches two decades of work in education and youth development, the programme is intended to recognise its students and partners while outlining its next phase of expansion in skill-based higher education.

The organisation’s stated focus remains on improving access to learning, strengthening links with employers and preparing young people for opportunities in technology, finance, logistics and entrepreneurship.