January 10, 2025

India’s preschool and childcare sector is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by rising awareness, evolving parental expectations, and innovative teaching methods. Valued at $957.86 million in 2023, this sector is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.2% and is expected to continue expanding through 2032. The evolution of this sector is characterized by a blend of modern technology, child-centered curricula, and strategic policies aimed at laying a solid foundation for early education. As we step into 2025, let’s explore the key trends shaping the future of preschool learning this year.

Current Trends in Indian Preschool Education

Technology Integration

E-learning tools such as smart classrooms, educational apps, and AI-driven systems are transforming early childhood education. These tools enable a personalized learning approach that caters to each child’s unique needs.
Gamification, particularly for children aged 2 to 10, enhances learning outcomes by making the process more engaging and emotionally rewarding.
Virtual Reality (VR) is set to revolutionize preschool education by creating an immersive learning environment that sparks curiosity and fosters holistic development. This cutting-edge technology is poised to change how young children learn, preparing them for the complexities of a rapidly evolving world.
Real-time data analytics allows educators to adjust their teaching strategies proactively, optimizing learning outcomes. Additionally, these advancements enhance accessibility, bridging the educational divide between urban and rural areas.

Screens to Class:

Thoughtfully integrating screens into the classroom is preparing children for a future where technology is central to their lives and careers. Interactive whiteboards can turn lessons into captivating learning experiences, while educational apps make learning fun and memorable. Online platforms provide access to a vast library of knowledge, enabling students to explore their interests and learn at their own pace.

Cognitive Enhancement Curricula and Nature-Based Learning:

Preschools are increasingly adopting cognitive enhancement and nature-based learning approaches to foster comprehensive development. Memory games, puzzles, and hands-on activities promote critical thinking, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Nature-based experiences, such as gardening and outdoor exploration, cultivate environmental awareness, curiosity, and creativity. These methods stimulate imagination and support foundational skills in reasoning and observation.

Enhanced Teacher Training

Continuous professional development for educators is now a priority. These programs equip teachers with modern methodologies and tools to meet the demands of innovative curricula.

Brand Licensing Models

Brand licensing can standardize quality education across regions, reducing the urban-rural divide. Scalable with centralized training, this model ensures consistent safety and teaching standards. Franchise operations also bring cost efficiencies, helping maintain affordability while delivering high-quality services. This model promotes accessibility, affordability, and adaptability within the preschool sector.

Regional Expansion

Expanding preschools to underserved areas offers several benefits, including improved access to quality early childhood education and reduced commutes for families. These benefits contribute to child development, reduced educational disparities, and stronger community growth.
However, successful expansion requires attention to key factors such as maintaining consistent quality across locations, providing adequate teacher training, and ensuring accessibility and affordability for all families, especially those from lower-income backgrounds.

Also Read: Transforming Tumakuru’s Education Landscape

As India embarks on a transformative journey in its preschool and childcare sector, blending technology with holistic teaching methodologies, it is set to build a future that is inclusive and policy-driven. The focus on foundational skills is strengthening the sector’s emphasis on regional inclusivity and innovative learning approaches. By addressing issues of affordability and accessibility, India is well-positioned to set a global benchmark in early childhood education.

Views Expressed by: Preeti Bhandary, Co-Founder & Director, Curriculum – Little Elly

Shrewsbury International School India: Redefining Global Education in the Heart of India

Interviews

digitalLEARNING Network

January 10, 2025

Shrewsbury International School India, an ambitious new co-educational boarding school set on a sprawling 150-acre campus in Bhopal, is set to redefine education in the region. Scheduled to welcome its first cohort in August 2025, the school will cater to students aged 11-18, offering a holistic and enriching learning experience for up to 800 pupils.

As the first fully residential campus in South Asia under the prestigious Shrewsbury UK family, this school sets itself apart by providing a globally benchmarked education. Following the English National Curriculum, students will be prepared for Cambridge IGCSE examinations in Years 10 and 11 and A-Level courses in Years 12 and 13. With an 80:20 ratio of international to Indian faculty, Shrewsbury International School India ensures an authentic global learning environment, building on the legacy of its day schools in Thailand, Cambodia, and Hong Kong.

Abhishek Mohan Gupta, Founder and President, Board of Management, Shrewsbury International School India, in a conversation with the Elets News Network (ENN), discusses the rise of international schools in India, the appeal of global curricula, and the vision for shaping the future of education in South Asia.

1. What is driving the growth of international schools in India?

The rise of international schools in India is fueled by a combination of economic, social, and regulatory factors. Increasing disposable incomes have encouraged parents to invest in quality education, while greater awareness about global education standards has led to a demand for holistic curricula that blend tradition and technology.

Regulatory reforms, such as the National Education Policy (2020), have also enhanced the quality of education. Recent policies enabling up to 100% Foreign Direct Investment in the education sector have paved the way for reputed international schools to establish campuses in India. This shift reflects a broader effort to align Indian education with global trends.

2. Why is India an attractive destination for schools like Shrewsbury?

India’s regulatory reforms and growing middle class make it an ideal destination for international schools. The country’s multicultural environment fosters global exposure and creative learning experiences for students from diverse backgrounds.

Bhopal, where Shrewsbury International School India is located, offers a unique opportunity to deliver the British National Curriculum and International Baccalaureate in a clean, central, and culturally rich setting. “The Indian middle class is aware and proactive in seeking international-standard education, making institutions like Shrewsbury highly relevant,” Gupta explains.

3. How does the fully residential model benefit students?

Shrewsbury International School India’s fully residential model offers students a holistic educational experience. The school emphasises “whole-person education,” blending academic rigor with cultural enrichment.

“The FLOREAT philosophy focuses on meeting the individual needs of every learner,” Gupta notes. This approach, combined with a globally benchmarked curriculum, benefits Indian and international students alike.

The school’s 150-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized labs, exclusive sports arenas, and performing arts spaces. A globally diverse faculty further enriches the learning environment with innovative teaching methods.

4. What role does Shrewsbury envision in shaping the future of education in India and South Asia?

Shrewsbury International School India is poised to become a trendsetter in the region’s education sector. Its FLOREAT philosophy emphasizes holistic development, cultural integration, and social responsibility.

This unique model is expected to empower students to thrive in an interconnected world while fostering a collaborative, multicultural community. “This partnership marks a defining moment for Indian education,” Gupta states, envisioning the institution as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity.

Also Read: BHU Legacy Shaping Generations of Leaders and Innovators

5. How can schools like Shrewsbury attract expatriate families and foreign students?

Shrewsbury International School India offers world-class education that integrates cultural diversity with holistic development, making India an appealing destination for expatriate families.

The school’s central location and supportive community create a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. Gupta believes this initiative will enhance India’s reputation as a global education hub, particularly in central India. “For a nation on a growth trajectory, institutions like Shrewsbury can be transformative,” he concludes.

With its forward-thinking vision and commitment to excellence, Shrewsbury International School India is set to redefine the educational landscape of India and South Asia.

IIT Delhi Introduces Robotics Programme to Equip Leaders in Emerging Tech

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 10, 2025

The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) has launched its Executive Programme in Robotics to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in this dynamic field. This initiative aims to bridge the skill gap by equipping learners with cutting-edge expertise to excel in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

As industries embrace automation and robotics, operational frameworks are undergoing a significant transformation. The global robotics market, currently valued at USD 46 billion (2023), is expected to surge to USD 169.8 billion by 2032, registering a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.1%. From manufacturing and healthcare to agriculture and defence, robotics has become integral to various sectors, driving innovations such as collaborative robots (cobots), swarm robotics, and micro and nanorobotics.

Highlighting the programme’s objectives, Professor Arnab Chanda, Associate Professor at IIT Delhi’s Centre for Biomedical Engineering, remarked, “Robotics is no longer a concept of the future, it is here, reshaping industries and improving lives. Through this programme, we aim to cultivate a new generation of innovators and leaders who will pioneer advancements in robotics, driving growth and sustainability.”

The Executive Programme in Robotics offers a comprehensive curriculum that spans foundational principles to advanced applications. Learners will gain hands-on experience in designing, programming, and operating robotic systems using state-of-the-art tools like sensors, actuators, and the Robotics Operating System (ROS). The six specialised modules include:

Fundamentals of Robotics and Automation
Sensing and Perception
Actuators and Motion
Modelling, AI, and Machine Learning
Embedded Control and Mechatronics
Applications and Future Directions

Participants will work on real-world projects, utilising industry-relevant tools such as CAD software, 3D printers, and Arduino. The programme also offers insights into multidisciplinary career opportunities, including roles such as Robotics Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, and Robotics Programmer.

Also Read: Karnataka Bringing the Stars to Gram Panchayats as IIA and Arivu Kendras Transform Community Learning

Delivered in a Direct-to-Device (D2D) format, the programme features interactive live sessions, tutorials, and project-based learning. Learners will also enjoy a one-day campus immersion at IIT Delhi, gaining first-hand exposure to the institution’s world-class academic and research ecosystem.

According to LinkedIn, robotics not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters a collaborative synergy between humans and machines. As industries continue to embrace robotics, IIT Delhi’s Executive Programme is poised to empower professionals with the skills needed to lead and innovate in this transformative domain.

Karnataka Bringing the Stars to Gram Panchayats as IIA and Arivu Kendras Transform Community Learning

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 9, 2025

In a bid to promote scientific curiosity among rural communities in Karnataka, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) has partnered with the state’s Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) Department. This collaboration aims to promote astronomy through ‘Arivu Kendras’, the network of approximately 5,880 gram panchayat libraries managed by dedicated library supervisors across the state.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on January 3, 2025, marking a significant step toward enhancing science literacy in rural areas. The initiative focuses on training library supervisors, developing astronomy resources in Kannada, and organising engaging activities around celestial events. By leveraging the existing infrastructure of Arivu Kendras, the program seeks to make astronomy accessible and engaging for children and the broader community.

One of the key aspects of this collaboration is the emphasis on hands-on activities. Library supervisors will be trained to conduct affordable and accessible methods to explain everyday concepts in astronomy. This practical approach is designed to spark curiosity and provide a tangible understanding of astronomical phenomena visible to the naked eye.

The initiative also plans to utilise the computer labs available in Arivu Kendras to facilitate online interactions, including talks, contests, and digital tools. This digital engagement aims to further enrich the learning experience, providing communities with up-to-date information and interactive platforms to explore the wonders of the cosmos.

Training in the use of small telescopes will add a practical element, allowing people to directly experience the beauty of the cosmos. This hands-on experience is expected to inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging more individuals to take an interest in science and astronomy.

Arundhati Chandrashekar, Commissioner of the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Commissionerate, RDPR Department, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “Our 5,880 ‘Arivu Kendras’, spread across rural Karnataka, serve a large community, and this initiative will help them learn more about the night sky as well as recent astronomy news and discoveries. Promoting astronomy and science, especially in Kannada, will enhance science literacy, particularly among students who access our ‘Arivu Kendras’, and through them, foster scientific temperament in the rural community.”

Also Read: Andhra Pradesh Initiates Comprehensive Reforms in Intermediate Education

Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of IIA, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting, “Rural communities have a fantastic scientific resource—access to darker night skies due to reduced light pollution. We have been working with a few ‘Arivu Kendras’, especially through our COSMOS-Mysuru project, and we look forward to a successful collaboration with the department to spread astronomy throughout rural Karnataka through our dedicated outreach section.”

The COSMOS-Mysuru project is an upcoming state-of-the-art planetarium and data training centre in Mysuru, aimed at promoting astronomy education and research.

Andhra Pradesh Initiates Comprehensive Reforms in Intermediate Education

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 9, 2025

The Government of Andhra Pradesh has announced a series of transformative reforms aimed at overhauling the state’s intermediate education system. These initiatives are designed to prepare students for future challenges better and enhance the overall quality of education. Nara Lokesh, Minister of IT, Electronics & Communication, and Human Resources Development, Andhra Pradesh, took to social media platform LinkedIn to share the announcement and invite suggestions from all the stakeholders.

Key Proposed Reforms:

Revision of Syllabus and Textbooks: The government plans to update educational content to reflect current academic and industry standards, ensuring that students receive relevant and up-to-date knowledge.
Introduction of New Subject Combinations: To provide students with more flexibility and diverse academic choices, new subject combinations will be introduced, allowing learners to tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations.
Changes in Examination Marks Pattern: The evaluation system will undergo reforms to promote holistic assessment and reduce the emphasis on rote learning, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of subjects among students.
Proposal to Remove Intermediate First-Year Board Examinations: In an effort to reduce academic pressure and streamline the education process, the government is considering eliminating the first-year board examinations for intermediate students.

These reforms are part of a broader strategy to create an inclusive, future-ready education system that prioritizes student development and global competitiveness. The government is actively seeking suggestions from the public, including students, parents, and academicians, on the proposed reforms. Feedback can be submitted until January 26, 2025, via the official website bieap.gov.in or email at biereforms@gmail.com.

Minister Nara Lokesh emphasised the importance of these reforms, stating that they are crucial for aligning the state’s education system with global standards and preparing students for the evolving demands of the workforce. He noted that the lack of reforms in intermediate education over the past decade has necessitated this comprehensive overhaul.

Also Read: Future of Jobs Report 2025: WEF Predicts 78 Million New Jobs by 2030 Amid AI and Automation

Other Initiatives to Improve Education in AP

In addition to the proposed reforms, the government has recently launched the Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme for intermediate students studying in government colleges. This initiative aims to support students’ nutritional needs, thereby enhancing their academic performance and overall well-being. The scheme is expected to benefit students across 475 government intermediate colleges, with an annual expenditure of ₹86 crore.

Furthermore, the state is exploring the establishment of specialised institutions, such as an AI University and an Innovation University, to foster advanced learning and research. Discussions are also underway to introduce digital assessment systems to replace traditional OMR sheets in schools, promoting creativity and reducing costs.

As the January 26 deadline approaches, students, parents, educators, and other interested parties are encouraged to review the proposed reforms and contribute their insights. The collective input will play a significant role in shaping the future of intermediate education in Andhra Pradesh, ensuring that it meets the aspirations of students and the demands of a rapidly changing world.

Future of Jobs Report 2025: WEF Predicts 78 Million New Jobs by 2030 Amid AI and Automation

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 8, 2025

The global job market is on the cusp of a major transformation, with the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 projecting a net gain of 78 million jobs by 2030. While an estimated 170 million new jobs will emerge, 92 million positions are expected to be displaced, reflecting the disruptive impact of technological advancements and automation.

The strongest job growth is anticipated in sectors such as care, education, technology, and renewable energy. Roles in these industries are expected to surge as economies transition towards greener energy sources and adopt advanced technologies. Emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and renewable energy solutions will drive demand for tech-savvy professionals.

Surprisingly, essential frontline roles, including care workers, educators, delivery drivers, and farmworkers, will also experience significant growth, underscoring the continued importance of human-centric jobs.

However, traditional roles such as graphic designers and administrative assistants face steep declines due to automation. Companies increasingly turn to AI-driven tools to handle routine tasks, reshaping the employment landscape.

The Skills Gap: A Pressing Challenge

While the net growth in jobs is promising, the report highlights a critical skills gap that must be addressed to ensure a resilient workforce. Nearly 40% of the skills required for future jobs will be new or evolving, requiring workers to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

Key skills in demand include technological expertise, coupled with human capabilities such as resilience, leadership, cognitive skills, and creativity. This shift underscores the importance of a balanced approach to training that integrates both technical and soft skills.

The WEF emphasises that 59% of the global workforce will need reskilling or upskilling by 2030 to remain competitive. Businesses are increasingly investing in upskilling their employees to navigate technological changes, particularly AI integration. However, 41% of companies also plan workforce reductions as automation becomes more pervasive.

Top Skills for a Changing Workforce

The WEF highlights the urgent need for upskilling as 40% of required job skills will evolve. The top 10 fastest-growing skills identified by the report include a blend of technological, analytical, and human-oriented competencies:

Collaboration is Key

The report also sheds light on external forces such as demographic shifts, geopolitical tensions, and economic challenges, which are reshaping labour markets globally. To tackle these challenges, the WEF calls for collective action among governments, businesses, and educational institutions.

“Trends such as generative AI and rapid technological shifts are upending industries and labour markets, creating both unprecedented opportunities and profound risks,” said Till Leopold, Head of Work, Wages and Job Creation at the WEF. “The time is now for businesses and governments to work together, invest in skills, and build an equitable and resilient global workforce.”

Also Read: IIM Mumbai’s New PG Diploma Blends Financial Expertise with Industry Insights

The Road Ahead

As AI and automation redefine the global employment landscape, proactive measures in education and workforce development are essential. Governments and businesses must prioritize creating inclusive upskilling initiatives, ensuring that workers are prepared for new opportunities while minimizing the risks of displacement.

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 serves as a clarion call to act swiftly in bridging the skills gap, fostering resilience, and unlocking the potential of the workforce for a dynamic and inclusive future.

The full report can be accessed here.

IIM Mumbai’s New PG Diploma Blends Financial Expertise with Industry Insights

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 8, 2025

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai, in collaboration with edtech platform TalentSprint, has unveiled a cutting-edge Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Economics and Management. This program aims to equip participants with in-depth knowledge of key areas such as accounting, investment and risk management, macroeconomics, behavioral finance, financial regulations, and advanced managerial frameworks.

Designed for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals, this 45-credit program combines online flexibility with immersive on-campus learning. Participants will benefit from real-world case studies, hands-on projects, and interactive sessions delivered by IIM Mumbai’s esteemed faculty.

The program also features the National Stock Exchange (NSE) as its knowledge partner, enhancing the curriculum’s industry relevance. Successful graduates will receive an IIM Mumbai PG diploma, gain alumni status, and join an extensive network of professionals and peers.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, Economics, Commerce, Management, Mathematics, or Statistics with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates). The degree should be awarded by a recognized university or institution as per UGC norms or an equivalent qualification approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

Selection Process

Applicants are required to take the IMAT exam conducted by IIM Mumbai, scheduled for January 12, 2025, followed by an interview. Candidates employed in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) with over 15 years of experience are exempt from the test but must participate in the interview process.

Also Read: UGC Draft Guidelines Seek to Revolutionise Faculty Hiring and Promotions in Higher Education

Program Highlights

Duration: One year
Commencement: January 2025
Delivery: Online and on-campus hybrid model
Key Benefits: Alumni status, exposure to real-world applications, and networking opportunities

Admissions are now open for this transformative program that bridges academic excellence and industry insights.

UGC Draft Guidelines Seek to Revolutionise Faculty Hiring and Promotions in Higher Education

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 8, 2025

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled draft guidelines introducing transformative changes to recruitment and promotion practices in higher education. The proposed regulations, under the UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025, aim to modernise academia by promoting inclusivity, flexibility, and innovation.

Assistant Professor Eligibility Redefined

Postgraduates with a Master of Engineering (ME) or Master of Technology (MTech) degree securing a minimum of 55% marks may now directly qualify for assistant professor roles without needing to clear the National Eligibility Test (NET). This move is set to streamline academic opportunities for engineering and technology graduates.

Expanded Scope for Teaching Disciplines

In a departure from traditional eligibility norms, candidates holding a PhD in a specific subject can teach in their area of specialisation, even if their undergraduate or master’s degree was in a different discipline. For instance, a PhD holder in Chemistry with a bachelor’s in Mathematics and a master’s in Physics can now teach Chemistry.

Promotions Based on Quality Contributions

The draft proposes the removal of the Academic Performance Indicator (API) system for faculty promotions. Instead, it emphasizes qualitative contributions, such as research publications, innovative teaching, digital content creation, and securing research funding. For promotion to associate professor, candidates must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:

Eight research publications in peer-reviewed journals
Eight book chapters or a book with a reputed publisher
Eight granted patents

Non-Academic Leaders Eligible for VC Roles

In a groundbreaking shift, senior professionals from public administration, industry, and public policy with at least 10 years of experience can apply for vice-chancellor (VC) positions, provided they have demonstrable academic contributions. The streamlined VC selection process will involve a three-member panel representing the Visitor or Chancellor, the UGC, and the university’s apex body.

Also Read: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Launches UGC Draft Regulations 2025 and Inaugurates ‘Pushpagiri’ Auditorium

Short-Term Contractual Faculty

To address urgent teaching needs, institutions may hire contractual teachers for a maximum of six months. These appointments will follow the same eligibility and selection standards as regular faculty, ensuring parity in remuneration.

Call for Feedback

Stakeholders and the public can share their feedback on the proposed guidelines until February 5, 2025.

For a detailed review, the full draft guidelines are available on the UGC website.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Launches UGC Draft Regulations 2025 and Inaugurates ‘Pushpagiri’ Auditorium

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 7, 2025

Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday unveiled the draft UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment & Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025. The event in New Delhi also marked the inauguration of ‘Pushpagiri,’ a state-of-the-art auditorium built by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

Addressing the gathering, Shri Pradhan emphasised the transformative potential of the draft regulations in fostering innovation, inclusivity, flexibility, and dynamism in higher education. “These guidelines will empower educators, elevate academic standards, and pave the way for educational excellence in alignment with the ethos of NEP 2020,” he said. He praised the UGC for its dedicated efforts and expressed confidence in the regulations’ ability to propel India towards “Viksit Bharat 2047” through enhanced education and research.

The draft regulations, now available for public consultation, seek feedback from stakeholders to refine and finalize the policy framework. Shri Pradhan encouraged active participation in this process, underscoring its importance in shaping the future of higher education.

Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Education; Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC; senior academicians, institutional heads, and other dignitaries attended the occasion.

The Minister also lauded the naming of the UGC’s newly constructed auditorium, ‘Pushpagiri,’ a tribute to Odisha’s rich intellectual heritage. Pushpagiri, located in Jajpur, Odisha, was a renowned center of learning in ancient India. Shri Pradhan expressed personal pride in this acknowledgment of India’s historical knowledge systems and hoped the auditorium would become a hub for meaningful intellectual discussions.

Also Read: Google Cloud Appoints Vaibhav Kumar Srivastava as India Head for EdTech and Education

Draft UGC Regulations 2025: Key Highlights

Flexibility in Appointments: Encourages recruitment of candidates based on NET/SET qualifications and Ph.D. specialisation, irrespective of prior degrees.
Promotion of Indian Languages: Advocates greater use of Indian languages in academics.
Holistic Evaluation: Moves away from score-based shortlisting to a broader qualification assessment, including “Notable Contributions.”
Inclusivity: Introduces pathways for talented individuals in arts, sports, and traditional disciplines to join academia, with provisions for persons with disabilities.
Simplified Promotions: Streamlines promotion criteria, focusing on teaching, research, and academic contributions.
Enhanced Governance: Revises eligibility and processes for Vice-Chancellor appointments to ensure transparency.

The draft regulations aim to modernise higher education governance, improve professional development opportunities for teachers, and uphold accountability in recruitment and promotion processes. For more details, stakeholders can review the draft at: UGC Draft Regulations 2025.

Google Cloud Appoints Vaibhav Kumar Srivastava as India Head for EdTech and Education

News

digitalLEARNING Network

January 7, 2025

Google Cloud has appointed Vaibhav Kumar Srivastava as the India Head for EdTechs and Education, entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the company’s education initiatives across India and the SAARC region. This strategic move underscores Google Cloud’s commitment to advancing digital transformation in the education sector.

Since joining Google Cloud in 2021, Srivastava has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s presence in the education sector. As the Head of Education, Early Stage EdTechs, and Greenfield Corporates, he managed a field sales team dedicated to enhancing the adoption of Google Cloud and Google Workspace across India and SAARC.

Under his leadership, Google Cloud has collaborated with various educational institutions to drive digital transformation. Notably, the partnership with Techno India University aimed to modernise education through the implementation of ‘Digital Campus on Google Cloud 2.0,’ providing students with access to advanced AI tools and cloud-based learning platforms.

Strategic Vision for 2025 and Beyond

In his new role, Srivastava is expected to further Google Cloud’s mission of leveraging technology to enhance educational outcomes. His vision includes promoting the use of generative AI and cloud computing to create more accessible, inclusive, and innovative educational experiences. By fostering collaborations with educational institutions and EdTech startups, he aims to equip learners with the skills necessary for the digital age.

Srivastava’s appointment comes at a time when the education sector is increasingly embracing digital tools to enhance learning experiences. His leadership is anticipated to drive significant growth and innovation, reinforcing Google Cloud’s position as a key player in the education technology landscape.

Also Read: India Launches E-Visas for International Students Seeking Higher Education

About Vaibhav Kumar Srivastava

Vaibhav Kumar Srivastava is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in the education and technology sectors. Before joining Google, he held leadership positions at Microsoft and Cisco, focusing on education and public sector markets. He is also involved in mentoring startups at T-Hub and serves as a Board Member at Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya. His academic background includes management and engineering, complemented by executive education from prestigious institutions.