Dr. Palani Rathinam, CEO, Akara Education and Chairman, Akara Foundation started his career as a teacher in Chennai Loyola College in 1980s, from where he had graduated earlier. Having been awarded the Gold Medal for his University Rank in Masters and subsequently the 'Best Dissertation Award' for his Ph.D Thesis on American Poetry, Dr. Palani specialised in stylistics and interpreting deviant use of language in literature. His vast experience of over three decades as an educator and educator-trainer at all levels in K-17 has made him versatile and resourceful in finding and fixing gaps in learning.

Dr. Palani turned an edupreneur in K-12 in early 90s and has established and successfully operated more than half-a-dozen schools, including those that offered International Programs.

It is this awareness of design & delivery of the current K-12 system that compelled him to introduce innovative learning models and tools called 'Palms' & 'Edges'.