New Book by Bijan Fahimi Challenges Perceptions of Independent Schools, School Corporations, and AI in Schools
Published: June 15, 2026
Miscellaneous
Tellusgruppen's CEO and co-founder Bijan Fahimi has published the book *Confessions of a Welfare Oligarch: An Entrepreneur’s Story About Schools, Power, and the Media*. The book discusses three issues that have long been at the center of the Swedish debate on education: the independent school reform, publicly traded school companies, and artificial intelligence in schools.
The book draws on more than two decades of experience in the education sector and argues that the independent school reform was more successful than many had anticipated, that publicly traded school companies can contribute to greater transparency and long-term development, and that AI could become one of the most significant opportunities for Swedish schools in many years.
The independent school reform turned out better than expected
A central argument in the book is that the results of the independent school reform are often described in an overly one-sided manner. Drawing on statistics from sources such as the Swedish National Agency for Education and PISA 2022, the book highlights that students in independent schools achieve higher results on average, while the schools operate at a lower cost per student.
The book argues that this is an example of how resources can be used more effectively to create greater value for students and society.
Publicly Traded School Companies as an Asset
Another theme is the role of publicly traded school companies in the education sector. The book highlights how the requirements for transparency, reporting, and external auditing that come with a public listing can contribute to greater accountability and long-term quality improvement.
The book uses the International English School as an example; according to the book, its expansion illustrates how the corporate structure can create the conditions necessary to extend successful programs to more students.
AI as an Opportunity for Swedish Schools
The book’s concluding chapter focuses on artificial intelligence and its potential in education. The argument is based on the idea that AI can contribute to more personalized instruction, ease the workload on teachers, and give more students access to the right support at the right time.
This section also describes the so-called Centaur Model, in which people and technology work together to enhance instruction and free up more time for learning and building relationships in the classroom.
“My side of the story has gone untold for far too long, while the media and my political opponents have been allowed to set the narrative. This book is an attempt to change that,” says Bijan Fahimi.
Seminar in Almedalen
The book also serves as the basis for a seminar hosted by the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions ( Tellusgruppen's ) during Almedalen Week.
Time: Wednesday, June 24, 1:00–1:45 p.m.
Location: Clarion Hotel Wisby, Strandgatan 6, Visby
Bijan Fahimi is available for interviews and comments. For review copies, please email kontakt@bijanfahimi.se.
Book Information
Title: Confessions of a Welfare Oligarch – An Entrepreneur’s Story About Schools, Power, and the Media
Author: Bijan Fahimi
Publication Year: 2026
ISBN: 9789181493900
Publisher: Bina Publishing