Alumnus – JNV Sheikhpura (Bihar) | 1991–1998 Batch
Entrepreneur | EduTech Innovator | Former IT Professional | STEM & Robotics Evangelist
Roots in Bihar, Wings from Navodaya
In the early 1990s, a young boy from Sheikhpura, Bihar entered Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya with wide eyes and big dreams. That boy, Upendra Kumar Goswami, was part of the 1991 batch, and for seven formative years (till 1998), Navodaya became not just a school but a second home.
It was here that he imbibed the values of discipline, teamwork, and curiosity—the very traits that would later define his professional journey. His time at JNV Sheikhpura gave him both academic grounding and cultural exposure, shaping him into a learner for life.
From Business to Technology – A Journey of Adaptability
After completing his schooling, Upendra moved south to Bangalore, where he earned a Bachelor’s in Business Management (BBM) from AMC Engineering College (1998–2002). But his thirst for deeper learning and his growing interest in technology led him further. He pursued a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) from Bangalore Institute of Technology (2003–2005), merging business acumen with technological expertise.
This dual background in management and technology would prove to be a cornerstone of his career—allowing him to adapt, evolve, and excel across diverse roles.
The Corporate Journey – From India to the US
Upendra’s professional journey reflects resilience, growth, and global exposure. He started his career modestly as a Marketing Executive at Windsor Garden (2001–2003), where he learned the basics of client relations and business development.
In 2005, after completing his MCA, he entered the IT world as a Test Engineer at Covansys India Pvt. Ltd. (2005–2007). His career in software testing deepened as he worked as a QA Engineer at Adea Technology Pvt. Ltd. (2007–2010).
Then came a major leap—his move to the United States. From 2010 to 2014, he worked with Fresh Direct as a Quality Assurance Analyst, mastering global industry standards. He later joined Fora Financial Inc., first in the US and later from India, serving as Quality Assurance Project Manager (2010–2023). Over more than a decade at Fora, Upendra demonstrated leadership in project management, technology, and quality assurance, cementing his reputation as a reliable professional.
The Entrepreneurial Leap – Founding RAAK Sapphire
Even while excelling in his corporate career, Upendra’s heart was drawn towards education and innovation. In 2020, he founded RAAK Sapphire, an EduTech company based in Bangalore.
The vision? To provide 21st-century skills to young minds—bridging the gap between traditional schooling and futuristic education through AI, STEM, and Robotics.
By 2023, Upendra decided to dedicate himself full-time to RAAK Sapphire. Since then, his company has partnered with 100+ schools, setting up STEM and Robotics Labs that give students hands-on experience in problem-solving, coding, artificial intelligence, and innovation.
Now, with momentum on his side, he is planning to scale RAAK Sapphire pan-India, bringing cutting-edge learning to thousands of children across the country.
The Navodaya Soul – Always Giving Back
Despite a busy career that took him from Sheikhpura to Bangalore, from India to the US, and back, Upendra has always carried the Navodaya spirit with him. He remains a dedicated supporter of the alumni community, always available for counseling, mentorship, and consultation, especially in the fields of STEM education and robotics.
Many Navodayans look up to him not just as an innovator, but as a guide who generously shares his knowledge and insights to help others grow.
Legacy in the Making
Upendra Kumar Goswami’s journey is one of adaptability, vision, and service. From a JNV student in Bihar to a global IT professional, and now a pioneer in EduTech entrepreneurship, his life reflects the belief that learning never stops—and that the real purpose of knowledge is to empower the next generation.
As he continues to expand RAAK Sapphire, his mission is clear: to ensure that every child in India has access to the tools, skills, and mindset needed for the future.
🖋️ “STEM education is not just about technology—it’s about giving children the confidence to imagine, innovate, and lead in tomorrow’s world.”
— Upendra Kumar Goswami
