Breaking Boundaries: Indian Ed-Tech Companies Driving Towards Global Expansion

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July 31, 2024

The ed-tech industry is experiencing a global surge, projected to reach a value of US$661.2 billion by 2032. In this transformative landscape, India is emerging as a key player, propelling its domestic ed-tech sector onto the international stage. Indian ed-tech companies are not just breaking barriers; they are reshaping the global education sector. As the demand for education access, a tech-savvy generation, and a growing number of internet users escalate, Indian ed-tech companies are at the forefront of this global transformation.

The ed-tech journey in India started in the early 2000s with only a few players in the market. At the moment, the situation is a diverse picture of companies that can meet various needs of users. These enterprises are leading the digital transformation of education in India across skills, languages, and STEM. The ed-tech sector in India emerged as the second largest in the world and raised a record US$4. 73 billion in funding in the recent past. This financial muscle and a user base that has crossed 18 million underscore the huge possibilities of ed-tech in India.

Growth Drivers: Affordability, Accessibility, and Innovation.

Several factors are driving the rapid growth of India’s ed-tech industry. The country’s expanding internet user base, which is predominantly mobile-driven, provides a fertile ground for ed-tech businesses. Additionally, India’s youthful population fuels the demand for upskilling and reskilling, creating a substantial market for online courses and certificates. These factors, combined with the affordability and accessibility of Indian ed-tech platforms, are propelling the industry’s growth.

One of the key factors that sets Indian ed-tech platforms apart is their affordability. Compared to their Western counterparts, Indian ed-tech platforms offer significantly lower costs. For instance, online postgraduate programs can be obtained at a fraction of the price of a traditional degree abroad. This affordability, coupled with the virtual format that transcends geographical limitations, is making quality education accessible to a wider global audience. This cost-conscious approach positions Indian ed-tech as a frontrunner in the worldwide market, promising substantial revenue opportunities and the potential for widespread educational impact.

Also read: Indian EdTech Titans Unacademy And K12 Techno Eye Landmark Merger

Indian ed-tech companies stand out for their unique strategies that set them apart in the global market. Their commitment to bridging educational disparities and their innovative approaches are key to their success as they expand globally. These strategies include strategic collaborations, technological universality, and cultural adaptation, all of which contribute to their competitive edge.

Cultural Adaptation

Indian ed-tech companies are going beyond simple translation to achieve true cultural adaptation. Here’s how:

Content localisation: They’re tailoring learning materials to resonate with different learning styles. This includes adapting examples, references, and humour to be culturally relevant to the target audience.
Incorporating diverse perspectives: The content acknowledges and celebrates global viewpoints, ensuring students encounter a richer learning experience.
Language learning with cultural context: Language learning platforms are going beyond vocabulary and grammar, integrating cultural nuances to aid communication and understanding.

Technological Universality

To ensure global accessibility, Indian ed-tech companies are focusing on:

Offline functionality: Understanding that internet connectivity can be unreliable in some regions, platforms are enabling features that allow students to download lessons and access them without an internet connection.
Mobile-first approach: Since mobile phones are often the primary internet device in many countries, platforms are optimised for mobile learning, with downloadable apps and responsive web design.
Lower bandwidth requirements: Catering to areas with limited internet speed, companies are developing content that uses less data to stream or download.

Strategic Collaborations:

Indian ed-tech companies are forging partnerships to:

Tap into local expertise: Collaborating with local educational institutions and businesses provides valuable insights into the specific needs and preferences of the target market.
Leverage existing distribution networks: Partnering with established educational organisations allows ed-tech companies to reach a wider audience through existing channels.
Develop co-created content: Joint ventures with international partners can lead to the creation of educational content that is truly international in scope and perspective.

The rise of Indian ed-tech benefits not only students and educators in India but also their global counterparts. A recent study revealed that instructors on Indian ed-tech platforms dedicate more time to students and reach a larger student base compared to those on foreign platforms. This translates into increased earning potential for educators and a richer learning experience for students worldwide.

The Future of Education: A seamless blend of technology and innovation.

The global growth of online education presents exciting opportunities for all stakeholders. As online learning evolves, the post-pandemic landscape of higher education will be transformed. India’s strong belief in the potential of digital tools positions the country as a leader in shaping the future of education. The global rise of Indian ed-tech companies heralds a new era that seamlessly integrates technology, innovation, and cultural understanding. With their unwavering commitment to quality and affordability, Indian education technology is poised to make a lasting impact on global education, ensuring access and quality for all.

Finally, India’s ed-tech sector is more than just a home success story; it is poised to become a worldwide phenomenon. Indian ed-tech companies are democratising access to great education by using innovation, affordability, and a commitment to cultural awareness. As the world adopts online learning, India is well-positioned to lead the way, imagining a future in which education is accessible, inclusive, and empowering to everyone.

Views expressed by: Mr. Diwakar Chittora, Founder & CEO, Intellipaat

Overcoming Language Barriers in Career Development

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Kapil Suri

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July 30, 2024

In today’s interconnected global economy, access to education and career opportunities should not be hindered by linguistic barriers. For students in rural areas, proficiency in English often stands as a challenging obstacle, limiting their access to crucial information on educational opportunities, career advancements, and prospects for higher education. Recognising this challenge, innovative educational platforms have emerged as transformative tools, bridging the language gap and empowering students to pursue their academic and professional dreams.

Personalised Education Platforms: Bridging the Language Gap

Recognising this challenge, innovative education platforms have emerged as pivotal tools for students in rural areas, addressing the critical issue of language barriers in accessing information. These platforms provide tailored services that cater to the unique informational needs of individual students, offering targeted support to enhance their access to higher education and career opportunities. Through comprehensive databases of educational resources, real-time translation tools, and user-friendly interfaces, students can navigate crucial information at their own pace and comfort.

Many of these platforms feature specialised modules designed to make foundational information on educational institutions, courses, and career paths accessible in multiple languages. Advanced offerings include live guidance sessions with experts, interactive informational webinars, and access to extensive databases of scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Such comprehensive tools not only help students in tier 2 and 3 cities overcome initial language barriers but also instil the confidence necessary to make informed decisions about their academic and career aspirations.

By bridging the language gap, these platforms empower rural students to access critical information, thus levelling the playing field and providing them with the opportunities needed to achieve their dreams.

Integrating Language Learning with Personalised Career Guidance

Beyond language instruction, these platforms integrate robust career guidance services, leveraging predictive analytics to provide personalised support. They offer insights into diverse career paths tailored to each student’s skills, interests, and academic capabilities. By merging language acquisition with career development, these platforms equip students with the requisite knowledge and direction to navigate their future career choices effectively.

Through advanced data analysis, these platforms can assess individual student profiles and suggest career paths that align with their strengths and passions. This personalised approach ensures that students receive guidance that is relevant and actionable, helping them to set realistic and achievable career goals. By bridging the language gap and offering customised career guidance, these platforms empower students to make informed decisions and compete effectively in the global job market.

Also read: Bridging the Internship Gap with New Programs.

Empowering Students for Success

Despite the formidable challenges posed by linguistic disparities in tier 2 and 3 cities, personalised education platforms offer a tangible solution. By delivering targeted language instruction and personalised career guidance, these platforms empower students to transcend language limitations and unlock their full potential. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected global landscape, the imperative to eliminate these barriers becomes crucial, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to chart a successful career journey.

The role of personalised education platforms in breaking down language barriers cannot be overstated. They serve as catalysts for social mobility, enabling students from diverse linguistic backgrounds to thrive in a competitive world. By investing in these platforms and embracing linguistic diversity, we pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future where talent knows no linguistic bounds.

Views Expressed By: Mr Rohan Rai, CEO and Co-Founder, Edupull

Ministry of Education Unveils IKS Publications at 2024 Education Summit

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Kapil Suri

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July 30, 2024

New Delhi: In a significant celebration held at the Manekshaw Centre Auditorium, New Delhi, the Ministry of Education commemorated the fourth anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 with the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS) 2024. The event was graced by key figures, including the Minister of State for Education & Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, and the Minister of State for Education & Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Sukanta Majumdar.

Joining them were Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education; Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, along with a host of academicians, vice-chancellors, officials, and students.

A Tribute to Indian Knowledge Systems

The highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of several pivotal publications by the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Division of the Ministry of Education, designed to foster a deeper understanding of IKS among students and educators. Among these was a comprehensive collection of lecture notes from the Faculty Training Program for Master Trainers in IKS, spearheaded by Shri Anurag Deshpande and Shri S. Sriram of the IKS Division. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the University Grants Commission (UGC), has unfolded in three stages over the past year, offering rich insights into various disciplines, including Chemistry, Agriculture, Ayurveda, Mathematics, and more, underscored by philosophical foundations and methods intrinsic to IKS.

Noteworthy Publications

The event also saw the release of “Kautilya’s Arthashastra: Timeless Strategies for Modern Governance,” co-authored by Vinayak Rajat Bhat and Tejusvi Shukla. This work reinterprets the ancient text with modern applications, serving as a crucial resource for scholars and practitioners alike.

Another significant publication, “Marma Kannadi: Decoding the Human Body the Siddha Way” by Gurukkal Dr. S. Mahesh, explores the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu and Siddha medicine, shedding light on the sage Agasthya’s profound teachings.

The “Shodha Vijaya,” a scholarly exploration of the grandeur of southern dynasties focusing on the Vijayanagara Karnata Kingdom, was also introduced. This compilation includes a variety of research articles covering aspects from theatre and dance to ancient scriptures, edited by Dr. Manorama B. N.

Also read: Ministry of Education Commemorates NEP 2020’s 4th Anniversary at Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024

Future of Indian Knowledge Systems

Further enriching the event, Prof. Mohan Raghavan from IIT Hyderabad unveiled a report on the state of the Indian Knowledge Systems and Heritage (IKS & H) Industry. The report projects this sector to potentially evolve into a trillion-dollar industry within the next decade, driven by a unifying Indic identity and heritage across various domains such as Culinary, Textiles, Tourism, and Ayurveda.

Looking Ahead

The ABSS 2024 stands as a milestone event, reinforcing the synergy between traditional wisdom and contemporary educational frameworks. Initiated in July 2022 by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Varanasi, the summit continues to foster dialogue, collaboration, and innovation among stakeholders, driving the effective implementation of NEP 2020 across India’s educational landscape.

Ministry of Education Commemorates NEP 2020’s 4th Anniversary at Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024

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Kapil Suri

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July 29, 2024

Ministry of Education celebrated the 4th anniversary of implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 with the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024 at the Manekshaw Centre Auditorium in New Delhi.

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, graced the occasion and shared his insightful experiences in spearheading the implementation of NEP 2020. The event was also honoured by the presence of the Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, the Minister of State for Education & Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Sukanta Majumdar, and other dignitaries. Several eminent academicians, Vice Chancellors of universities, officials, and students attended the celebration.

During the event, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated several significant initiatives of the Department of Education. These included dedicated TV channels to facilitate learning various Indian languages, including a Tamil channel, and primers for early graders in 25 Indian languages, adding to the 54 already available. He also introduced guidelines for ten bagless days to transform learning into a fun, stress-free school experience. Additionally, he launched Career Guidance Guidelines, a massive library of over 500 job cards, resources such as NMM & NPST in Braille and audiobooks. Other notable initiatives included the School Innovation Marathon by AICTE & AIM and the establishment of graduation attributes and professional competencies.

Shri Pradhan also unveiled several books and lecture notes designed to promote the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) among students and teachers, furthering the educational goals set forth by NEP 2020.

The Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS) was conceptualised to celebrate the adoption of the National Education Policy 2020. It aimed to reinvigorate the commitment of various stakeholders for its effective implementation and to harness collective strength for achieving shared goals through collaborative efforts. The day it featured six-panel discussions, delving into multiple ministry initiatives with participation from eminent academicians and stakeholders.

Also read: CM Patel: New NEP to Highlight the Valor of India’s Forgotten Heroes

The first event of ABSS, organised in July 2022 in Varanasi, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. That event aimed to create a platform for all stakeholders to come together for the effective, smooth, and timely implementation of NEP 2020. It also sought to establish strong linkages among various higher educational institutions and discuss the challenges faced by HEIs while articulating solutions.

The celebration at Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024 marked a significant milestone in the journey of NEP 2020, showcasing the Ministry of Education’s dedication to transforming and improving the educational landscape of India.

Fee Act Enforcement: Government Takes Action Amidst Academic Year

Schools News

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Kapil Suri

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July 27, 2024

Education Secretary Krishna Kunal instructed department officials to strictly implement the provisions of the Fee Act in private schools. Kunal emphasised that only RBSE and CBSE books should be used in affiliated schools, eliminating pressure on students to buy additional books.

Parents’ associations expressed concerns, pointing out that these instructions came after the academic session had started and books had already been purchased. Abhishek Jain Bittu, the state spokesperson of Sanyukt Abhibhavak Sangh, criticised the timing of these directives, noting ongoing investigations into fee regulation in major schools that remain unresolved.

Additionally, a directorate-level committee has been established to recommend amendments to the Rajasthan Non-Government Educational Institutions Act and Fee Act, with a report expected in 15 days. The education department had previously issued guidelines in May to control fee hikes, stipulating that fees could only be increased once every three years and decided by a committee. Parents were also allowed to buy books and uniforms from outside the school.

Also read: The UP government has disallowed any increase in school fees for the academic year 2021-22

These measures aim to standardise educational expenses and alleviate financial burdens on parents, ensuring a fair and transparent system in private schooling.

IIT Bombay Launches Innovative BTech in IEOR

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Kapil Suri

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July 25, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) has introduced a new BTech program in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research (IEOR) starting this academic year. This innovative course integrates applied mathematics, computing, technology, and management to address real-world challenges through effective decision-making models.

This BTech program, encompassing the core areas of Operations Research (OR) and Industrial Engineering (IE), is ideal for students interested in data science, computing, and decision analysis. OR examines complex human-technical systems and their structures, utilising mathematical and decision models such as optimisation, simulation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These models address planning, scheduling, and control issues across various fields. IE focuses on designing, analysing, improving, and managing industrial and service systems to sustainably enhance their efficiency and effectiveness.

The BTech IEOR curriculum aims to provide a solid foundation in applied mathematics and computing while emphasising practical problem-solving skills. The program includes core courses in basic sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology), humanities and social sciences (economics, design thinking, HASMED), and engineering and technology (computer programming, Makerspace). These foundational courses are generally completed in the first and second years.

The program starts with “Introduction to IE and OR” (IE101) in the first semester, covering essential IEOR themes and developing problem-solving and systems-thinking skills. Other core courses include probability and statistics, optimisation (linear and non-linear), data structures and algorithms, control systems, artificial intelligence/machine learning, stochastic processes, simulation, risk and uncertainty, industrial systems, operations analysis, and logistics and supply chain management. Most of these courses are scheduled for the second year, with some extending into the third year. Probability and statistics are introduced in the second semester to provide a foundation for many decision models.

The program includes six core labs to complement the coursework: four computational labs focusing on algorithms and programming, optimisation, data analytics and AI/ML, and simulation, and two hardware labs dedicated to industrial engineering and digital enterprise systems. The computational labs will enhance modelling and analysis skills using various tools, while the hardware labs will teach data collection methods and modern tools, including IoT and AR/VR experiences.

Also read: Kaspersky, IIT Bombay signs MoU to strengthen cybersecurity education and research

Students can explore additional subjects through the department and STEM electives and may pursue an Honors degree in IEOR by completing extra courses and a capstone project. Minors in other disciplines are also available.

Graduates of the IEOR program can pursue careers in diverse sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, business analytics, e-commerce, production, agriculture, financial services, healthcare, security, information and telecommunications, and more. The program aligns with India’s initiatives like Make in India, Gati Shakti, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The skills acquired are highly valued in industries, technology innovation centres, research labs, and academia. IEOR graduates are equipped to analyse underlying processes and offer forward-looking solutions, distinguishing them in data science roles. The program also prepares graduates for advanced studies such as Master’s, MBA, or PhD programs at top global institutions.

Bridging the Internship Gap with New Programs

Union Budget 2024

By

Kapil Suri

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July 24, 2024

India is poised to achieve remarkable growth in the rapidly evolving digital era, outpacing the economies of its neighbouring nations. With this in mind, we are thrilled about the new measures announced in the 2024–25 interim budget to support education, employment, and skill development.

The government has allocated Rs 1.48 lakh crore for these important areas, showing a strong commitment to improving opportunities for our youth. One highlight is the plan to provide internships for one crore young people in 500 top companies. Each intern will receive a stipend of Rs 5,000 and a one-time assistance of Rs 6,000. This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain valuable work experience. Companies will fund these internships through CSR funds, creating a great partnership between the public and private sectors.

A new centrally funded scheme will also be launched in partnership with state governments and companies to train around 20 lakh youth over five years. As part of this initiative, 1,000 ITIs will be updated, with training content and design linked to industry skill requirements.

The Education Ministry’s budget has increased by 6.8%, now totalling Rs 1,20,627.87 crore, up from Rs 1,12,899.47 crore last year. This extra funding will help improve nationwide schools, colleges, and educational programs. Another important announcement is the support for loans up to Rs 10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions. This will make it easier for students to afford college and university, opening doors to better careers.

Views expressed by: Rohan Rai, CEO and Co-Founder, Edupull

Bridging the Gap: Integrating Skills into India’s Education System

Union Budget 2024

By

Kapil Suri

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July 24, 2024

A decade after spending a considerable amount of money since the setting up of the National Skill Development Mission and the National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in 2015, we have not seen the mainstreaming of skills, making it an integral part of our education system. This artificial barrier between education and skills needs to be removed. One effective way of doing this is to acquire appropriate job/vocational skills, which are essential to what we teach in schools and higher educational institutions. The skills imparted must also be strongly tethered to the job market, giving more credibility to skilling institutions. The government could even consider providing financial subsidies to acquire high-end skills, which has proven very effective; for example, schemes like FAME are giving a big push to the electric mobility sector.

Views expressed by: Abhimanyu Saxena, Co-Founder, InterviewBit and Scaler

Budget 2024-25 Lauded by Dharmendra Pradhan in Drive for India’s 2047 Goals

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By

Kapil Suri

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July 24, 2024

Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan has praised the 2024-25 Budget, calling it a monumental step towards realising India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. The budget announcement, which prioritises education, skilling, employment, research, and innovation, was made public by Delhi’s Press Information Bureau (PIB) last evening.

Pradhan expressed deep appreciation for the concerted efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman focused on enhancing the quality of life and economic opportunities for India’s “Garib, Mahila, Yuva, and Annadata.” According to the Education Minister, this budget is “truly a people-oriented, growth-inducing, inclusive, and progressive” step forward.

Emphasising the strategic allocation of funds, Pradhan highlighted the significant ₹1.48 lakh crore earmarked for education, employment, and skilling. This includes a comprehensive Prime Minister’s Package to revolutionise the skilling and apprenticeship ecosystem, provide skill development and internship opportunities to 1 crore youth, and offer employment-linked incentives across various sectors.

Additionally, the budget has allocated funds to facilitate the provision of Model Skill Loans and education loans, which are expected to empower over 25,000 students annually with more accessible financial support for higher education.

Regarding specific allocations, the Department of School Education & Literacy has received its highest budget of ₹73,498 crore for FY 2024-25, marking a 19.56% increase from the previous fiscal year. This includes enhanced allocations for flagship schemes like Samagra Shiksha, PM-POSHAN, and PM-SHRI.

The Department of Higher Education also sees a substantial increase, with a total allocation of ₹47,619.77 crore. This includes increases across major educational bodies and schemes, such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), alongside the newly announced Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence.

Pradhan asserted that these “comprehensive and concrete measures” are set to fulfil the aspirations of the Indian youth by significantly enhancing the education landscape, thus ensuring India’s position as a global hub for talent, skills, and innovative solutions.

With this budget, the government aims to bolster socio-economic conditions, fuel green growth, strengthen social justice, improve the business climate, and accelerate economic growth, propelling India towards its goal of being a developed nation by its centenary year of independence.

Investing in the Future with Rs 1.48 Lakh Crore for Education and Skill Development

Union Budget 2024

By

Kapil Suri

-

July 24, 2024

The government’s move to launch a scheme to provide internship opportunities in 500 top companies to 1 crore youngsters in the next five years will go a long way in creating new jobs in the country. This will also enable the youngsters to upskill themselves and move up the value chain. Acquiring the requisite skills needed for the industry is most important, and this move to provide internships will accelerate that process.

The finance minister has also said that the government will allocate Rs.1.48 lakh crore for the education sector, jobs and skill development. This is a tremendously encouraging move.
The FM has also announced financial support for loans up to Rs.10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions. This measure will encourage students to continue their education in India, creating a situation where their technical skills can be utilised.

Views expressed by: Raj Mruthyunjayappa, Chairman and CEO, Talisma Corporation

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