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Bambinos Aims ₹100 Crore Revenue in 2025 with AI-Driven EdTech Expansion

Bambinos

Bambinos Learning Solutions, an edtech startup specialising in online English tutoring for children aged 4 to 14, has announced an ambitious plan to achieve an Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) of ₹100 crore by the end of 2025. This target is underpinned by a comprehensive expansion strategy and the introduction of innovative educational products.

Founded in 2020 by Ashish Gupta and Gaurav Brar, Bambinos has distinguished itself in the edtech sector through its AI-driven teaching methodology. This approach tailors lessons to each child’s unique learning style, emphasizing essential life skills such as confidence, problem-solving, and character development. By focusing on these foundational areas, the platform ensures that children are well-prepared for future challenges while excelling in literacy and numeracy.

Addressing a significant challenge in India, where less than 10% of the population speaks English fluently, Bambinos aims to bridge the linguistic divide by providing high-quality education in the K-5 segment. “Our mission is to provide every child in India with the right start in life by mastering written and spoken English, which is critical for their future success,” said Ashish Gupta, co-founder and CEO of Bambinos.

As of 2024, Bambinos reported having over 6,000 monthly active students and more than 250 tutors. The company generated a revenue of ₹24 crore in the same year and achieved EBITDA positivity with a 15% margin, reflecting its strong financial performance. Looking ahead, Bambinos plans to expand its presence to 100 cities across India by 2025, aiming to empower over 15 million young learners to enhance their English communication skills.

Also Read: Perplexity AI Grants Free Access to Perplexity Pro for IIT Madras Community

In addition to its core English tutoring services, Bambinos offers a variety of live interactive online courses across subjects such as visual arts, personality development, dance, music, and communications for children in the 4-12 age group. The platform hosts live interactive online classes like arts and crafts, dancing, coding, robotics, and yoga, enabling students to interact with educators and peers in real-time, thereby improving their engagement and developing their mental health.

Perplexity AI Grants Free Access to Perplexity Pro for IIT Madras Community

Perplexity AI

Perplexity AI, an innovative AI-driven search engine startup, is providing free access to its premium subscription service, Perplexity Pro, for all students, faculty, and staff at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. This initiative is part of the company’s broader strategy to expand its presence across Indian educational institutions.

Aravind Srinivas, Co-Founder and CEO of Perplexity AI and an alumnus of IIT Madras, shared the news on his social media accounts, stating, “We’ve given free Perplexity Pro to all students, faculty, and staff of IIT Madras, where I did my undergrad. Super excited to start there as we begin our expansion to Indian campuses.”

Perplexity Pro is designed to enhance the search experience by offering advanced features and capabilities, including real-time, web-connected search with citations, providing users with accurate and up-to-date information. Students, faculty, and staff of IIT Madras can sign up for Perplexity Pro using their official IIT Madras email IDs to access the free subscription.

Sonar by Perplexity

In addition to this educational initiative, It has recently launched an API service called Sonar, enabling developers and enterprises to integrate the company’s generative AI search capabilities into their own applications. Sonar is available in two tiers:

  • Sonar: A lightweight model offering straightforward answers with citations, optimized for speed and cost.
  • Sonar Pro: Built for more complex queries, providing in-depth answers with enhanced citation density and advanced information retrieval from multiple web searches.

The introduction of Sonar aims to make search-grounded large language models more accessible and cost-effective for a wide range of applications.

Also Read: UP Cabinet Greenlights Free Smartphones, Medical Colleges, and ITI Upgrades in Major Youth-Focused Push

About Perplexity AI

Perplexity AI is a leading AI-driven search engine startup focused on delivering real-time, accurate information through advanced generative AI technologies. By integrating real-time web search capabilities with AI, Perplexity AI aims to revolutionise the way users access and interact with information online.

For more information, you can visit the official website: https://www.perplexity.ai

UP Govt Approves Free Smartphones, Medical Colleges, and ITI Upgrades in Major Youth-Focused Push

UP Cabinet

In a significant move to empower the youth and boost healthcare and skill development, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, approved several key initiatives during its meeting in Prayagraj on Wednesday.

As part of the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Sashaktikaran Yojana, the Cabinet approved the procurement of 25 lakh smartphones for free distribution to skilled youth pursuing higher education, technical education, healthcare training, ITI programs, and skill development courses. The scheme aims to make youth future-ready by providing access to technology and has been allocated a budget of ₹4,000 crore for FY 2024-25. The initiative will span five years and is expected to empower millions of students across the state.

Medical Education Expansion

The Cabinet also sanctioned the operation of medical colleges in Hathras, Kasganj, and Baghpat under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. These districts currently lack both public and private medical colleges, and the new institutions aim to bridge the gap in healthcare and medical education.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved the transfer of the 166-bed Government Combined Hospital in Balrampur to the Medical Education Department. This will pave the way for the establishment of an Autonomous State Medical College, affiliated with King George Medical University (KGMU). The new college will offer specialized healthcare services and medical education opportunities, with 1,394 academic and non-academic posts created for its functioning.

Also Read: ISBF and King’s College London Launch BSc Psychology Program to Address India’s Mental Health Needs

ITI Modernisation and Innovation Centers

To further boost skill development, the Cabinet approved an agreement with Tata Technologies Limited (TTL) to modernize 62 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and establish five Centres for Innovation, Invention, Incubation, and Training (CIIITs). This ₹3,634 crore initiative will see TTL contribute ₹2,851 crore, while the state government will fund ₹783 crore. The revamped ITIs are projected to train 12,500 candidates annually, split between long-term and short-term programs.

The Cabinet’s decisions align with Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to advancing education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, fostering a more skilled and technologically equipped generation.

ISBF and King’s College London Launch BSc Psychology Program to Address India’s Mental Health Needs

ISBF King’s College London

The Indian School of Business and Finance (ISBF) is going to launch a BSc Psychology (Hons) program in collaboration with King’s College London, ranked third in the UK for psychology by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. This partnership aims to address India’s growing need for skilled mental health professionals by offering students a globally benchmarked curriculum and cutting-edge resources.

To enhance hands-on learning, ISBF will establish a psychology lab where students can conduct simulations and experiments, bridging theory with practice. “This program reflects our commitment to providing students with world-class education and practical innovation,” said Arushi Bakshi, Director of ISBF.

A Legacy of Global Partnerships

Known for its academic collaborations, ISBF delivers undergraduate programs under the University of London (UOL), with academic direction from the London School of Economics (LSE). Its offerings in Economics, Management, Finance, and Data Science have earned recognition, including accolades like the National Education Award for B-School Leadership and ASSOCHAM’s Best Institute for Global Exposure.

ISBF also boasts a distinguished Advisory Board with leaders from institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, and Stanford, alongside industry giants like Meta and Google. This ensures the curriculum remains aligned with global academic and professional standards.

Global Opportunities for Students

ISBF students benefit from unique international exposure opportunities, such as the LSE Summer School with a 40% scholarship, global university transfer options, and internships through the Mountbatten Programme with firms like HSBC and Deutsche Bank in hubs like London and New York.

Also Read: IGNOU Launches MBA Study Materials in Odia, Pioneering Regional Language Education

Modern Campus, Expansive Vision

In July 2024, ISBF inaugurated its state-of-the-art campus in South Delhi, equipped with advanced classrooms, research facilities, and sporting amenities, fostering holistic student development.

Applications for the 2025 intake, including the new psychology program, are now open. Interested candidates can learn more at www.isbf.edu.in.

By partnering with King’s College London, ISBF aims to redefine psychology education in India, addressing critical mental health needs while preparing students for global academic and professional success.

IGNOU Launches MBA Study Materials in Odia, Pioneering Regional Language Education

IGNOU

In a landmark move to promote regional language education, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has introduced MBA (Master of Business Administration) study materials in Odia. This initiative marks the first instance of IGNOU providing course materials in the Odia language, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 objectives to offer higher education in local languages.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan officiated the digital launch of these Odia MBA books at Jaydev Bhavan in Bhubaneswar. Minister Pradhan commended IGNOU’s efforts, emphasizing that the availability of management education resources in Odia will significantly benefit students across Odisha. He also unveiled IGNOU’s e-GyanKosh and e-KUMBH portals during the event. The e-GyanKosh portal will host digital study materials, while the e-KUMBH portal will provide access to IGNOU’s online MBA books in Odia.

Professor Nayantara Padhi from IGNOU highlighted that the decision to offer MBA education in Odia stems from the implementation of NEP 2020 in Odisha, which advocates for the inclusion of regional languages in higher education. This initiative is expected to make management education more accessible to Odia-speaking students, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the academic landscape.

Also Read :- Dhananjay Shukla Elected as ICSI President for 2025; Pawan G Chandak to Serve as Vice President

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Odisha Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain and Higher Education and Odia Language, Literature and Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, who collectively lauded the initiative.

In a related development, the Odisha state government is contemplating the introduction of MBBS education in Odia. To achieve this, a committee comprising 22 doctors has been formed to work on translating MBBS textbooks into the Odia language, reflecting a broader commitment to integrating regional languages into professional education.

This progressive step by IGNOU not only aligns with the NEP 2020’s vision but also sets a precedent for other educational institutions to embrace regional languages, thereby enriching the educational experience and preserving linguistic heritage.

Dhananjay Shukla Elected as ICSI President for 2025; Pawan G Chandak to Serve as Vice President

Dhananjay Shukla Pawan G Chandak

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) has announced the election of Dhananjay Shukla as its president for the year 2025. A commerce and law graduate, Shukla is a fellow member of the institute and brings years of expertise as a practising company secretary based in Gurugram. His professional contributions have earned him recognition as a leading figure in the domain of company secretaries.

Joining him in a key leadership role, Pawan G Chandak has been appointed as the vice president of ICSI for 2025. Chandak, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience, holds a specialization in labour laws and labour welfare. His extensive expertise includes assisting numerous start-up ventures in establishing their operations in India, especially those promoted by foreign entities.

Leadership Journey of Pawan G Chandak

Chandak has held significant roles within the institute and its regional councils over the years. Prior to his new position, he served as the vice president of ICSI in 2024. Additionally, he was elected to the Western India Regional Council (WIRC) of ICSI for the term 2019–2022, during which he served as Secretary of the region in 2019.

His leadership contributions extend to chairing the Pune Chapter of WIRC of ICSI in 2012 and 2017, further underscoring his dedication to the institute’s growth and member engagement.

Also Read: Skills Gap Challenges and Economic Optimism Define UAE and Saudi Job Market Outlook for 2025

A Vision for the Future

Under Shukla’s presidency and Chandak’s vice presidency, ICSI is expected to strengthen its initiatives to support company secretaries and advance the profession’s role in corporate governance and compliance. The duo’s combined expertise and leadership vision aim to drive innovation and promote best practices across the industry.

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India, established by an Act of Parliament, is a premier professional body in India dedicated to the development and regulation of company secretaries.

Skills Gap Challenges and Economic Optimism Define UAE and Saudi Job Market Outlook for 2025

UAE and Saudi Job Market

The job market in the UAE and Saudi Arabia is poised for significant shifts in 2025, as professionals and recruiters grapple with a growing skills gap. According to a new LinkedIn study, 75% of professionals in these countries plan to seek new job opportunities this year, despite acknowledging increasing challenges in hiring and job searching.

The research reveals that 51% of job seekers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia believe the employment search has become harder over the past year. At the same time, 46% of HR professionals report difficulties in finding qualified candidates, signaling a widening skills gap in the region.

For many professionals, the job hunt has become a source of frustration, with 43% citing the process as frustrating and 57% deeming it time-consuming. Despite these challenges, 58% of job seekers remain optimistic about their prospects, buoyed by expectations of robust economic growth in the region.

The UAE’s non-oil sector is projected to grow by 4-5%, while Saudi Arabia anticipates a 4.9% economic growth in 2025, driven by ambitious diversification strategies. This optimistic economic outlook fosters hope for a more dynamic job market, although many job seekers feel the need to apply to more positions to increase their chances.

Inefficient Strategies Hinder Success

The research highlights inefficiencies in job application strategies. While 44% of professionals are applying for more roles than ever, 48% report fewer responses from recruiters, and 34% admit to applying for roles without meeting key qualifications.

Recruiters face their own challenges, with 29% of HR professionals spending up to five hours daily reviewing applications, yet finding that less than half of candidates meet job criteria.

Najat Abdelhadi, LinkedIn Career Expert, noted, “Professionals need to shift their approach and be more strategic in applying for roles that match their skillset so they stand out.”

Emerging Roles and Skills for 2025

To bridge the skills gap, LinkedIn recommends professionals adopt an adaptability mindset, highlighting soft skills such as communication and flexibility during the hiring process. The platform also suggests leveraging AI tools to optimize profiles and identify suitable roles.

The “Jobs on the Rise” report from LinkedIn identifies Artificial Intelligence Engineer as a prominent emerging role globally, alongside increased demand for security-focused engineering and travel-related jobs as post-pandemic trends stabilize.

With nearly 71% of roles on the report being new additions, the demand for niche skills underscores the importance of ongoing professional development and targeted job search strategies.

Also Read: Karnataka Govt and British Council Join Hands to Enhance Rural Learning with Digital Library Access in 10 Districts

Navigating the 2025 Job Market

To enhance their job search success, professionals are encouraged to focus on verified job postings, leverage LinkedIn’s job match features, and explore actionable insights from its emerging roles report. These tools aim to empower job seekers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to align their skills with market demands and navigate a competitive hiring landscape effectively.

The findings highlight the pressing need for both job seekers and recruiters to prioritize skill development and adopt innovative approaches to overcome challenges in 2025’s dynamic job market.

Karnataka Govt and British Council Join Hands to Enhance Rural Learning with Digital Library Access in 10 Districts

Priyank M. Kharge

In a bid to strengthen its educational initiatives, the Karnataka government has partnered with the British Council to enhance learning opportunities for rural communities. An agreement was signed to provide 500 English-language books to 10 selected Gram Panchayat Arivu Kendras (rural libraries) across 10 districts. These books will be housed in dedicated “British Council Library Corners,” creating spaces where children can explore, learn, and grow.

In addition, all 5,880 Arivu Kendras will gain first-level access to the British Council’s Digital Library. With digital library walls set up in internet zones, people across rural Karnataka will benefit from world-class learning tools and resources.

This collaboration marks a significant step in the state’s commitment to providing free access to books, computers, and internet facilities to over 50 lakh children and adults. The Arivu Kendras, open 8 hours a day including weekends, have become vibrant centers of knowledge and curiosity, thanks to the dedication of librarians who foster learning within communities.

Priyank M. Kharge, Minister of Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Karnataka, shared the update on social media platform LinkedIn with a quote from the great scientist, Albert Einstein: “The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the location of the library.” He emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating, “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every person in rural Karnataka has access to resources that inspire curiosity, build skills, and unlock new opportunities.”

This collaboration builds upon previous partnerships between the Karnataka government and the British Council, including efforts to upskill teachers and students, improve learning outcomes in physical education, and enhance higher education collaborations.

Duolingo Launches DETermined Scholarship to Empower Indian Women in STEM

Duolingo
Severin Hacker, Co-founder and CTO, Duolingo, Carrie Wang, Senior Director, Head of Growth, Duolingo English Test, and Dr. Kamalika Banerjee, Strategic Alliances Division, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India

The Duolingo English Test (DET), a leading platform for digital English proficiency testing, has introduced the DETermined Scholarship, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering Indian women in STEM fields. Launched in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, the scholarship was announced at a press conference in New Delhi by Severin Hacker, CTO and Co-Founder of Duolingo, alongside Carrie Wang, Senior Director of the Duolingo English Test.

Supporting Women in STEM

The DETermined Scholarship provides a one-time grant of USD 30,000 to cover tuition fees for a master’s degree in STEM at a U.S. university that accepts the DET for admissions for the 2026–2027 academic year. The initiative underscores DET’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive global education ecosystem and breaking gender barriers in STEM.

India’s progress in STEM education has been remarkable, with women’s participation rising from 38.4% a decade ago to 42.6%, according to the University Grants Commission. The scholarship aims to build on this momentum, supporting women innovators and leaders who will contribute to India’s growing reputation as a global hub for science, technology, and innovation.

Role of the PSA Office

As a knowledge partner, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser will facilitate applications through the Manthan portal and contribute to the jury for selecting scholarship awardees. This collaboration aligns with the government’s vision of bridging gender gaps in STEM and driving innovation through diverse perspectives.

Dr. Sapna Poti, Director of Strategic Alliances at the PSA Office, emphasized the partnership’s importance: “Empowering women in STEM fosters diversity and drives innovation. By partnering with Duolingo, we aim to provide talented women access to world-class education, enabling them to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat and global innovation leadership.”

Scholarship Features and Selection Process

  • Mentorship Opportunities: Finalists will receive guidance from STEM experts.
  • Three-Step Selection Process: Includes an application phase, a STEM impact proposal challenge, and a final interview.
  • Eligibility: Open to Indian women with a bachelor’s degree in STEM, demonstrated leadership in science and technology, and a commitment to contributing to India’s innovation ecosystem upon returning from their studies.

Accessibility Through DET

The DET offers an accessible, flexible, and affordable means for students to showcase English proficiency. With online testing and results in 48 hours, the DET ensures test integrity through AI-powered security protocols. Accepted by over 5,500 programs worldwide, the DET is a gateway for aspiring scholars to realize their academic dreams.
Severin Hacker highlighted the scholarship’s impact: “Education transforms lives. Through the DETermined Scholarship, we aim to empower talented women to achieve their dreams and foster a more inclusive and innovative future for India and the world.”

Application Details

Applications open in June 2025 on the Manthan portal, with recipients announced in September 2025. Applicants must submit a DET score of 120, a strong academic record, and a proposal showcasing their vision for STEM innovation.

About DET and the PSA Office

The Duolingo English Test integrates cutting-edge AI and assessment science to provide a fast, convenient, and affordable solution for certifying English proficiency. Its scores are widely accepted by prestigious universities, including Columbia, the University of Toronto, and Yale.

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, established in 1999, provides strategic guidance on science and technology to the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, fostering innovation and development.

BrightCHAMPS Acquires Edjust to Strengthen Global Footprint in K-12 EdTech

BrightCHAMPS, Edjust

BrightCHAMPS, a global edtech platform, has acquired Mumbai-based K12 education marketplace Edjust in a cash and stock deal. This marks BrightCHAMPS’s fourth acquisition since its inception in 2020, following the purchases of Education10x in 2021, Schola in 2022, and Metamorphosis Edu in 2023.

Post-acquisition, Edjust’s founders will lead efforts to establish a new distribution channel focused on delivering academic subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and English to enhance students’ overall success and future readiness. Additionally, Edjust plans to refine its sales model and expand its presence across 30 countries, offering parents immersive digital experiences.

Founded in 2022 by Dushyant Panchal, Anmol Mittal, and Sanjay Panikar, Edjust utilizes a combination of artificial intelligence and human emotional intelligence, along with sophisticated data and contact centers, to engage parents with a high inclination for edtech products. The platform has established networks of parents in the US and UK.

BrightCHAMPS, led by founder and CEO Ravi Bhushan, offers online programming and AI courses for children in the K-12 segment. Operating in 30 countries, including the US, Canada, Nigeria, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, the startup also provides courses on coding, financial literacy, and robotics for children aged 6-16.

In November 2021, BrightCHAMPS raised $63 million in a Series C funding round led by Premji Invest, GSV Ventures, and others, valuing the company at approximately $500 million. To date, the company has secured a total of $84.9 million in funding.

Also Read | EdTech Platforms Providing Access to Education Across Regions, Driving Workforce Readiness in India

This acquisition aligns with BrightCHAMPS’s strategy to expand globally by adding new course experiences, entering new geographic regions, and finding innovative ways to reach more parents and students worldwide.

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