Azim Premji University, Bangalore – Campus Overview

Azim Premji University, Bangalore, is a leading not-for-profit, private university committed to social change and public good through education. Situated in India’s Silicon Valley, this progressive institution is known for its dedication to equity, sustainability, and inclusion. The university operates with a strong emphasis on research, community engagement, and education for development.

This campus description provides a comprehensive overview of the academic environment, infrastructure, student life, and key features that make Azim Premji University a standout institution in India’s higher education landscape.

🌿 1. About Azim Premji University

Established in 2010 by the Azim Premji Foundation, the university was built to develop professionals and thought leaders in the fields of education, development, and public policy. Located in Bangalore, Karnataka, the university focuses on interdisciplinary learning, field-based research, and social sector development.

Key facts:

• Type: Private, Not-for-Profit

• Established: 2010

• Campus Location: Sarjapur-Attibele Road, Bangalore

• Founder: Azim Premji Foundation

• Accreditation: UGC Recognized

🏫 2. Campus Location and Accessibility

Azim Premji University's new permanent campus is located on the Sarjapur-Attibele Road, on the south-eastern edge of Bangalore. The sprawling 80-acre campus is strategically placed in a green, pollution-free environment, designed with sustainability and ecological sensitivity at its core.

Accessibility:

• 60–90 minutes from key parts of Bangalore city

• Easily reachable by road, BMTC buses, cabs, and autos

• Nearby towns: Sarjapur, Attibele, Electronic City

🏗️ 3. Campus Infrastructure

The Azim Premji University campus is a model of sustainable design and environmentally responsible construction. It integrates open green spaces, modern architecture, and renewable energy practices.

a. Academic Blocks

• Spacious lecture halls equipped with digital learning aids

• Seminar rooms for workshops, group discussions, and debates

• Laboratories for Economics, Public Policy, and Sustainability Studies

• Language learning labs and computer labs

b. Library & Knowledge Centre

• A state-of-the-art, multi-storey central library

• Over 50,000 books, journals, and digital resources

• Access to e-books, JSTOR, Scopus, Sage Journals, and more

• Reading zones and quiet study corners

c. Residential Facilities

• On-campus hostels for both undergraduate and postgraduate students

• Separate housing blocks for men and women

• Well-furnished rooms, 24/7 power backup, internet, and security

• Common lounges and indoor activity areas

d. Dining & Cafeteria

• Hygienic and nutritious meals served three times a day

• Multi-cuisine cafeteria with vegetarian options

• Special dietary requirements accommodated

e. Administrative & Support Services

• Admission and Academic Support Offices

• Student Welfare and Career Services

• Campus Health Centre and Counseling Room

🌱 4. Sustainable Campus Design

The Azim Premji University campus is LEED-certified and constructed with environmental principles in mind:

• Rainwater harvesting systems

• Solar panels and energy-efficient lighting

• Waste segregation and composting

• Large green zones and native flora plantations

• Minimal water usage and eco-friendly plumbing systems

🎓 5. Academic Programs Offered

The university offers a rich blend of undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs focused on development, education, social sciences, and humanities.

Undergraduate Programs (3 Years)

• B.A. in Economics

• B.A. in Philosophy

• B.A. in History

• B.Sc. in Physics, Biology, Mathematics

• B.Sc. in Environmental Science and Sustainability

• Dual Degree: Science and Education

Postgraduate Programs (2 Years)

• M.A. in Education

• M.A. in Development

• M.A. in Public Policy and Governance

• LL.M. in Law and Development (New Program)

Diploma & Short-Term Programs

• Education and Social Work certificates

• Workshops and field training modules

• Summer schools on development and research

👩‍🏫 6. Faculty and Research

Azim Premji University is home to an exceptional faculty team comprising PhDs, scholars, activists, and public policy experts from India and abroad. Faculty members are deeply involved in interdisciplinary research, policy formulation, and fieldwork.

Research Focus Areas:

• Public education and pedagogy

• Livelihoods and sustainability

• Constitutional values and law

• Gender, equity, and human rights

• Governance and decentralization

The university houses multiple research centers, including:

• Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability

• Centre for Law and Policy

• Centre for Work and Education

• Centre for Sustainable Employment

👥 7. Student Life and Extracurricular Activities

Student life at Azim Premji University is vibrant, inclusive, and deeply rooted in values of cooperation, community service, and critical thinking.

Student-Led Initiatives

• Campus magazine and newspaper

• Art and photography clubs

• Debate and theatre societies

• Social outreach and volunteering groups

Events and Fests

• Annual Cultural Fest: Samaavesh

• Sustainability Week

• National Conferences and Paper Presentations

• Film screenings, book talks, and guest lectures

Sports and Fitness

• Open playgrounds and indoor courts

• Yoga and meditation sessions

• Weekly fitness and wellness activities

🌍 8. Diversity and Inclusion

Azim Premji University champions diversity and access to quality education for all. It welcomes students from rural and urban India, underrepresented communities, and various linguistic, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

The university ensures:

• Need-based scholarships

• Support for first-generation learners

• Gender inclusivity and safety programs

• Language assistance and peer learning support

💼 9. Career Services and Placements

The university has a dedicated Career Development Cell (CDC) that supports students in career planning, fieldwork placements, and final employment. While the university encourages graduates to enter the social sector, students also explore opportunities in research, NGOs, think tanks, CSR, education policy, and public administration.

Top Recruiters Include:

Azim Premji Foundation, Pratham, Piramal Foundation, Teach For India, Goonj, Janaagraha, Breakthrough, Digital Green, SELCO Foundation, Quest Alliance, Aajeevika Bureau, The/Nudge Institute, Dream a Dream, CARE India, iVolunteer, Samarthan, Foundation for Ecological Security, and Oxfam India.

Roles Offered:

• Policy Analyst

• Research Associate

• Program Manager

• Curriculum Designer

• Community Engagement Officer

• Field Researcher

💸 10. Fees and Scholarships

Azim Premji University maintains an affordable fee structure to ensure accessibility for all students. It also provides generous financial assistance based on family income and need.

Estimated Fees:

• UG Programs: ₹1,50,000 to ₹1,80,000 per year (inclusive of tuition, accommodation, and meals)

• PG Programs: ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,40,000 per year

Scholarships:

• 100% fee waivers for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds

• Part-fee scholarships for middle-income families

• Special support for SC/ST/OBC students

• Travel grants for fieldwork and conferences

🧭 11. Field Practice and Internships

Field engagement is a core component of the curriculum. Students spend dedicated time every semester working with communities, schools, NGOs, or government bodies to gain real-world exposure.

Types of Engagements:

• Rural immersion programs

• Internships with policy think tanks

• Participatory research in villages

• Urban governance case studies

These field engagements build empathy, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities, aligning with the university’s mission to foster social change agents.

🌐 12. Digital and IT Facilities

The campus is equipped with modern IT infrastructure:

• High-speed internet connectivity

• Digital learning management systems (LMS)

• Online library access and journal databases

• Smart classrooms with audio-visual systems

Students also receive hands-on training in data analysis, report writing, and digital communication tools, preparing them for roles in both academia and development organizations.

📈 13. Alumni Network and Impact

Azim Premji University alumni are creating a national impact by working with schools, NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations. Many alumni go on to start their own social ventures or pursue PhDs and fellowships.

Notable Fields of Work:

• Rural development

• Education reform

• Environmental sustainability

• Child and women rights

• Public health and sanitation

The Alumni Office maintains a strong network through mentorship programs, newsletters, events, and workshops.

🛡️ 14. Safety and Wellness

The university prioritizes student safety and mental wellness through various initiatives:

• On-campus health clinic with professional staff

• Mental health counselors and wellness advisors

• Gender Sensitization and POSH Committees

• 24x7 security personnel and CCTV surveillance

📢 15. Admission Process

Admissions at Azim Premji University are merit-based and involve:

1. Online Application

2. Entrance Test (General Aptitude + Subject Test)

3. Personal Interview

No donations or capitation fees are accepted. The process encourages applications from across India and ensures fair representation.

Admission Timeline:

• Applications Open: November–December

• Entrance Test: February–March

• Results and Interviews: April–May

• Academic Year Begins: July

🧾 16. Quick Highlights

🧠 Conclusion: A University with Purpose

Azim Premji University, Bangalore, is not just an academic institution—it is a catalyst for social transformation. Its green campus, socially relevant curriculum, and commitment to equity make it one of India’s most visionary universities.

Whether you're an aspiring changemaker, an education enthusiast, or a development sector professional, Azim Premji University offers an inspiring and empowering academic journey.