About Advaya

Mr. Deepak Paigude Founder

Chairman, Lokseva Pratishthan
Ex-MLA

Our Founder

Mr. Deepak Paigude

Building a Vision for Future-Ready Education

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At Lokseva e School, our vision is to create an empowering learning environment where every child develops the knowledge, skills, confidence, and curiosity needed to succeed in life.

As the Founder, Mr. Deepak Paigude has focused on creating a modern, student-centered educational experience that combines smart learning, experiential education, academics, sports, performing arts, leadership, and global exposure.

His vision extends beyond academic achievement. Lokseva e School is committed to holistic development, encouraging curiosity, originality, self-confidence, strong values, and lifelong learning.

He strongly believes that educators and school leaders play a vital role in shaping young minds. By maintaining a supportive learning environment and working closely with parents, the school aims to give every student the opportunity to discover their potential and grow into a confident, responsible individual.

This vision continues to guide Lokseva e School in creating an engaging, inclusive, and future-ready educational experience.

Our Director

Mrs. Nivedita Nitin Madkikar

Director

With a magnificent career spanning over 50 years, Mrs. Nivedita Nitin Madkikar is a cornerstone of excellence in the field of education. As an academic pioneer, leader, and mentor, she has dedicated five decades to transforming schools, empowering teachers, and shaping the future of global education. Her profound expertise across Indian and international curricula has left an indelible mark on educational institutions both in India and abroad.

Leadership & Impact

Beginning her journey in the classroom, she spent over 16 years teaching Mathematics and Science at legacy institutions in Pune. Transitioning into administrative leadership, she served as a Principal for over 15 years across diverse formats, including Indian International Public School (Riyadh), Military School (Pune), and RIMS International School. Additionally, she has dedicated 13 years as an Executive Director, designing strategic growth maps and mentoring school leaders to align with world-class educational benchmarks.

Master Institution Builder

An expert in curriculum planning, operational systems, and teacher training, Mrs. Madkikar has been a pivotal force in founding and scaling several highly successful schools, including Lokseva E-School, Phoenix World School, Oyster International School, and many more.

Philosophy & Legacy

She operates on the firm belief that true education must nurture curiosity, integrity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. A fierce advocate for student-centered pedagogy, she continues to inspire generations of educators and students, building compassionate learning environments where holistic growth meets academic brilliance.

Mrs. Nivedita Nitin Madkikar – Academic Director

Mrs. Nivedita Nitin Madkikar Director

M.Sc. & B.Ed. Degrees
University Topper – Biology (B.Sc.), University of Mumbai
University Topper – Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.)
Senate Membership Offer – University of Mumbai, 1976

Dr. Prriyam Mohan Gunjal Director

Our Director

A Vision Rooted in Compassion, Driven by Evidence

Dr. Prriyam Mohan Gunjal is an accomplished Psychologist, Autism Specialist, and Educational Leader with more than 15 years of expertise intersecting neurodiversity, mental health, and educational psychology.

Armed with a Ph.D. specializing in Autism from Himalayan University and an MSc in Psychology from the University of Surrey, she is a proud Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Throughout her distinguished career, including her leadership as the Principal of The Shiishyaa School in Pune, India, Dr. Gunjal has championed inclusive learning environments. She has pioneered trauma-informed policies, implemented advanced Special Educational Needs (SEN) frameworks, and strengthened curriculum strategies to improve educational outcomes.

Her clinical practice integrates Modified Cognitive Behavioural Support (CBS) and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) to help children and young adults navigate anxiety, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and developmental challenges with evidence-based care. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Marathi, she connects with diverse families through compassionate and culturally sensitive support.

She is also an accomplished researcher and author of the book Seamless Learning Environment and Social Integration for Autistic Students, reflecting her commitment to advancing inclusive education and autism research. Her contributions have been recognised with prestigious honours, including the Best Principal Award and The Dedication Award, acknowledging her unwavering commitment to ensuring neurodiverse individuals feel protected, valued, supported, and empowered.

15+ Years of Expertise

Autism Specialist, Educational Leader, and Award-Winning Principal.

Clinical & Academic Excellence

CBT & PBS Practitioner, BPS Member, Author, and Researcher.

Our Story

The Meaning Behind the Name

"Advaya" is a Sanskrit word meaning non-dual — the state of being without separation. It reflects our foundational belief: there is no separation between clinical excellence and compassionate care, between professional rigour and human warmth.

Advaya Neurodiversity Centre was created to fill a critical gap in Pune — a place where neurodivergent young adults, specifically those aged 14 and above, could access holistic, evidence-based therapeutic support within a safe, purposeful, and inspiring environment.

We combine the rigour of clinical science with the depth of human understanding, creating a centre where every individual's neurodivergent profile is celebrated as a unique constellation of strengths and challenges — not a deficit to be corrected.

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Our Mission

Empowering Every Neurodivergent Individual

To deliver world-class, evidence-based therapeutic interventions and vocational programs that empower neurodivergent young adults to achieve sustainable independence, meaningful social participation, and a life of dignity and purpose — while supporting their families at every step of the journey.

Our Vision

A World Where Every Mind Thrives

To become India's most trusted neurodiversity centre — a place where every neurodivergent individual is recognized not for their diagnosis, but for their unique potential. To build an ecosystem in Pune and beyond where neurodiversity is understood, celebrated, and supported at every stage of life.

Evidence-Based Excellence

Every intervention is rooted in the latest clinical research. We never compromise on scientific rigor.

Radical Compassion

We approach every individual — child, young adult, and parent — with deep empathy and unconditional positive regard.

Family Partnership

Parents and caregivers are integral members of our therapeutic team, not peripheral participants.

Strength-Based Thinking

We build on what each person can do — identifying and amplifying strengths rather than focusing on limitations.

Measurable Accountability

Every goal is tracked, every milestone is documented, and every outcome is shared transparently with families.

Dignity & Independence

Our ultimate goal is not compliance — it is genuine independence, self-advocacy, and a life of dignity.

Comprehensive Consultation

Every individual begins with a thorough initial consultation — clinical evaluation, sensory profiling, functional skill mapping, and family consultation.

Individualized Planning

Each student receives a customized IEP (Individualized Education Plan) or ITP (Individualized Transition Plan) with specific, measurable goals.

Continuous Monitoring

Daily IEP tracking, 100% accurate electronic health records, and regular case review meetings ensure every goal is actively monitored.

Family Integration

Bi-weekly parent sessions, home-based programs, and school collaboration create a seamless support ecosystem around every student.

Multi-Disciplinary Sessions

Our integrated team of therapists collaborates across disciplines, ensuring holistic, coordinated care with no siloed interventions.

Outcome-Focused Goals

Every intervention targets real-world outcomes: independent living skills, communication, employment readiness, and community participation.