AICTE’s NEAT 4.0 Focuses on Emerging Tech, Drops Overpriced EdTech Products

Edtech

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has launched NEAT 4.0, the latest phase of its National Education Alliance for Technology, with a sharp focus on affordability and innovation. Unlike its previous edition, NEAT 4.0 onboarded fewer EdTech companies, prioritising value-for-money solutions while eliminating overpriced offerings.

As part of this initiative, 22 EdTech companies signed MoUs with AICTE, offering 40 innovative products across cutting-edge domains like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, semiconductors, 5G technology, and augmented reality (AR). These products aim to address skill gaps, enhance employability, and align education with industry demands.

Stringent Screening Process
AICTE has introduced a rigorous multi-round evaluation process to ensure only credible and affordable EdTech products make it to the NEAT portal. Companies are assessed on technical, financial, and ethical grounds, with a strong emphasis on affordability. AICTE Chairman TG Sitharam said, “We reject companies offering overpriced products. The value, quality, and financial integrity of the product are critical in our evaluation process.”

Inclusive Access Model
NEAT’s inclusivity model mandates that for every four products sold on the NEAT portal, EdTech companies provide the fifth product for free. These free products are distributed to economically disadvantaged students in remote areas, ensuring equitable access to education technology.

Reduced Participation but Greater Focus
In comparison to NEAT 3.0, which partnered with 58 EdTech companies offering 100 products, NEAT 4.0’s reduced numbers reflect a strategic shift towards quality over quantity. Experts attribute the decline to stricter affordability criteria and a more thorough vetting process.

Diverse Categories in NEAT 4.0
NEAT 4.0 introduces innovative learning solutions in key areas, enabling students to upskill and reskill to meet industry demands. Some of the newly added categories include:

  • AI, ML, robotics, and drones
  • AR/VR/MR and gamification
  • Semiconductors and 5G technology
  • Biomedical engineering and quantum computing
  • Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), management, and faculty development

Additional offerings include e-content, psychometric assessments, certification courses, vocational training, language learning, and tools for design thinking and coding. These courses aim to cater to diverse learning needs, enhancing employability and bridging skill gaps.

A Legacy of Impact
NEAT 3.0, launched in January 2022 by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, provided free EdTech course coupons worth over ₹253 crore to more than 12 lakh socially and economically disadvantaged students. NEAT 4.0 continues this legacy, ensuring affordability and access remain core principles.

Also Read: UP Rolls Out Social Audit Plan For 1.33 Lakh Schools to Boost Primary Education Standards

The Way Forward
Through partnerships with 22 EdTech companies, including Ansys Software, Dheya Career Mentors, and Intellipaat Software Solutions, NEAT 4.0 integrates a range of tools and courses on a single platform for learner convenience. These partnerships underline AICTE’s commitment to aligning education with industry needs while maintaining affordability.

Chairman Sitharam remarked, “NEAT brings the best educational products onto a single platform, enabling customized learning experiences for students across diverse regions and backgrounds. This initiative equips learners with future-ready skills aligned with evolving industry requirements.”

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