Can EdTech Bridge the Gap with AI-Driven Skilling?

In India, with over 1.4 billion people, traditional education struggles to meet the needs of a growing population. Sixty-five percent of the populace is under 35, yet lacks the skills crucial for a modern economy. McKinsey estimates that 450 million workers need upskilling by 2030 to match industry demands. Urgent innovation is required to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for India’s future prosperity.

Imagine a nation of over 1.4 billion people, where millions yearn for quality education but face limitations due to location, language, or traditional teaching methods. This is the reality in India, a land bursting with potential but grappling with a fragmented education system. Traditional methods struggle to keep pace with a growing population and vast geographical distances. According to a study by the World Bank, A staggering Sixty-five per cent of India’s fast-growing population is under 35 and many lack skills needed by a modern economy, highlighting the urgent need for a new approach. This skills gap translates into lost economic opportunities – a report by McKinsey estimates that India needs to upskill 450 million workers by 2030 to meet industry demands.

EdTech is to enhance access to quality education, bridge educational gaps, and ensure lifelong employability by reaching remote and underserved communities and providing continuous upskilling and reskilling opportunities in a rapidly evolving job market. - Aarul Malaviya, Founder, Zamit

Here’s where EdTech emerges as a beacon of hope. By leveraging technology, we can:

Scale Quality Education: EdTech platforms can bypass physical limitations, reaching students in remote villages and underserved communities.

Embrace Linguistic Diversity: India’s 22 official languages can be a strength, not a barrier. EdTech can provide multilingual content, ensuring no student is left behind.

Unlock Potential with AI: Imagine intelligent tutors that tailor learning to each student’s strengths and weaknesses. AI-powered EdTech can personalize education, maximizing skilling potential for every learner.

This EdTech revolution goes beyond individual empowerment. It’s a chance to unlock India’s full economic potential. By bridging the skills gap, we can create a future workforce ready to compete on the global stage. Are we on the right track to contribute to a future where every Indian child can thrive, not just through technology, but through comprehensive initiatives? The urgency to act is undeniable.

Aligning with a National Mission: A powerful revolution is brewing – one driven by EdTech, poised to transform the way India learns and equips its future workforce. Recognizing the transformative potential of EdTech, leading organizations are strategically aligning their efforts with government initiatives like Skill India and Digital India. This creates a powerful synergy, where EdTech platforms become the bridge between individual aspirations and national skilling goals. By leveraging their expertise and technology, these collaborations can empower the Indian workforce at scale, ensuring a future brimming with skilled and digitally fluent professionals.

One of the solutions for Low bandwidth is to develop text or audio content which can be accessed easily than video content. One can also look at optimizing content which can be opened on low-cost mobiles. - Anup Sasidharan, CEO, MBA ESG

Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Director of AASOKA & MBD Group, highlights the strategic alignment of their efforts with key government initiatives such as Skill India and Digital India, emphasizing their commitment to leveraging technology and educational expertise. AASOKA ensures inclusivity through a multimode approach, integrating skill-based learning into their curriculum and promoting multidisciplinary learning to support the vision for self-reliance outlined in Atmanirbhar Bharat. Additionally, their teacher training programs are aligned with NISHTHA, ensuring educators are equipped for effective digital-era teaching. Aarul Malaviya, Founder of Zamit, underscores the importance of continuous professional development for educators, aligning their offerings with the objectives outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Zamit’s professional development program bridges the gap between education policy and practice, supporting teachers in implementing NEP reforms effectively and offering various resources like webinars, symposia, and research grants. Talking about the partnership, Anup Sasidharan, CEO of MBA ESG, emphasizes the institute’s specialized courses in Digital Business, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence, aligning with the demands of the digital economy. MBA ESG partners with government and private organizations to provide hands-on training opportunities, further contributing to the skilling ecosystem. Moreover, they offer scholarships for talented students, actively contributing to the Skill India goal of providing a level playing field in access to education.

Furthermore, Prateek Maheshwari, Co-Founder of Physics Wallah & Co-Chair of the India Edtech Consortium, acknowledges EdTech’s role in democratizing education, particularly in rural areas. Physics Wallah, through its online platform, provides students access to quality education from India’s best educators, bridging gaps in the educational landscape and leveling the playing field for students across socioeconomic backgrounds.

These insights collectively underscore the transformative potential of EdTech in shaping the skilling ecosystem of India, driving inclusivity, accessibility, and empowerment across the nation. Through interactive content and certification programs, they equip learners with relevant skills for the workforce. EdTech also enables data-driven insights, aiding policymakers in optimizing programs. By bridging the digital divide and fostering a skilled workforce, EdTech supports government efforts to enhance economic growth, innovation, and social mobility, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and competitive society.

EdTech Hacks Upskilling

Surging forward EdTech platforms are taking innovative approaches to meet the needs of the modern workplace. Among these, Zamit is doing its bit with its iSKiL Programme. This well-crafted initiative integrates skill development seamlessly into existing curricular subjects. Leveraging AI, the program analyzes and refines over 70 crucial skills, culminating in the Zamit Quotient – a certification aligned with the UK’s regulatory framework and validated by QAI UK.

We prioritized immersive and engaging learning experiences in 2023. We emphasized the importance of digital transformation and new technologies throughout the year. The future of learning isn’t just about delivering content, it’s about creating spaces that encourage real connections and active engagement. - Dinesh Kumar Poobalan, CEO & CTO, Greatify

Similarly, AASOKA’s personalized learning pathways and industry-aligned curriculums, empower learners to flourish in today’s dynamic job market. Trusted by thousands of schools, educators, and students, AASOKA initiates lifelong learning and conducts nationwide capacity-building programs.

Both organizations address critical skill gaps in emerging fields like AI, data science, and cybersecurity, albeit through distinct approaches. Zamit prioritizes extensive research and collaboration with education experts, while AASOKA fosters holistic development through a multidisciplinary curriculum and immersive learning experiences. These initiatives powerfully illustrate the transformative potential of EdTech in upskilling and reskilling learners, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the ever-evolving demands of the global workforce.

Singing the Multilingual Symphony

India boasts a kaleidoscope of languages – over 124 major tongues enrich the nation’s cultural landscape. Yet, this very diversity can pose a challenge in education. EdTech platforms are rising to the occasion, composing a solution where language barriers no longer hold students back.

Recognizing the power of regional languages, EdTech platforms are prioritizing content development in various regional languages. Research highlights the cognitive benefits of learning in one’s mother tongue, leading to deeper understanding and engagement. This empowers learners to connect with educational content on a more personal level.

Nurturing collaboration among industry stakeholders, government agencies, and educational institutions can drive innovation and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all students nationwide. - Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Director, AASOKA & MBD Group

Beyond Translation

EdTech platforms aren’t simply translating content. They’re creating culturally relevant learning experiences that resonate with learners’ lived experiences. Teams of subject matter experts, fluent in regional languages, ensure content aligns with local contexts. Studies show this approach leads to a significant rise in learner engagement. Learning in their mother tongue becomes a bridge to mastering other disciplines while fostering multilingualism, a crucial skill in today’s globalized world. Aarul Malaviya opines, “Children are more likely to learn concepts better when taught in a language they are familiar with and hence regional language are important in education. Regional language also with multilingualism, help in preserving customs and traditions that contribute to the rich cultural diversity of a country. This has a very positive impact on engagement and learner outcomes and Zamit is keen to be able to make their offerings accessible to participants in their regional language.”

By prioritizing multilingual content and culturally relevant experiences, EdTech platforms are not only breaking down language barriers but promoting inclusivity and enriching the educational landscape of India. This innovative approach paves the way for a future where every learner, regardless of their linguistic background, has the opportunity to thrive. This isn’t just about access to education; it’s about empowering individuals and potentially upskilling millions, contributing to India’s goal of closing the national skill gap.

According to Monica Malhotra, “At AASOKA, we understand and embrace India’s linguistic diversity by offering a comprehensive approach to learning that transcends language barriers. Our platform ensures inclusivity through multimedia content and curriculum books available not only in Hindi and English but also in major regional languages such as Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, and Urdu. This allows learners from different linguistic backgrounds to access education seamlessly, fostering a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all.”

By offering courses in vernacular languages, it promotes inclusivity and accessibility, reaching students in every corner of the country. As per an annual report by Physics Wallah (PW), their platform has witnessed a 300% increase in student enrolments in Hindi medium batches and a fivefold rise in students opting for regional languages like Marathi, Bangla, Gujarati, Kannada, and Telugu, showcasing the rising demand for vernacular content. Earlier, the learning process used to frequently hamper non-native speakers due to language obstacles. To provide smooth collaboration, there are also high-tech tools to integrate real-time translation into platforms.

Obstacles and Open Roads

While EdTech offers a powerful solution for skilling and promoting linguistic diversity, challenges remain. Key challenges include accessibility barriers, language diversity, infrastructure limitations, and digital literacy gaps. The persistent digital divide, which was exacerbated by the pandemic, disproportionately impacts rural areas with limited access to learning devices. However, EdTech platforms are actively addressing this issue. Initiatives like providing free access to digital resources showcase the potential for technology to shift the educational landscape.

AASOKA highlights another challenge – the lack of practical experience and outdated curriculum in rural areas. Recognizing the importance of skill development in diverse linguistic backgrounds, they introduced a blended learning solution. This initiative demonstrates the effectiveness of reaching a wider audience, including small-scale schools in rural India, by catering to their specific needs.

Azent endorses and practices clear and transparent data policies focusing on how user data is collected, stored, and used. We ensure that data privacy considerations are integrated into the development of our AI-powered platform from the outset. - Priyanka Nishar, Founder & Managing Director, Azent Overseas Education

Teacher training is another crucial focus. Continuous professional development programs offered by EdTech platforms equip teachers with the skills to facilitate a shift towards skill-based and outcome-based learning. This aligns with the recent NEP & NCF guidelines that emphasize infrastructure improvements in schools.

Content localization is paramount for EdTech to truly promote linguistic diversity. Challenges like ensuring content accuracy and cultural relevance across multiple languages require ongoing effort. EdTech platforms like Zamit, as mentioned earlier, are actively researching and developing regional language content. Additionally, incorporating native elements into educational resources can significantly improve learner engagement.

Looking ahead, EdTech has immense potential to bridge the urban-rural divide in terms of information accessibility. EdTech platforms can ensure everyone has access to the same high-quality educational resources, regardless of location. The increasing use of Augmented Reality opens exciting possibilities for creating personalized learning experiences that cater to diverse learning styles.

Democratizing Access

The digital divide – the gap between those with and without access to technology – can be a significant barrier to education, particularly in underserved rural areas. However, EdTech platforms are leveraging government initiatives to bridge this gap and democratize access to education.

Collaboration is key. EdTech platforms are working closely with government bodies to align their initiatives with national educational policies and programs. This collaboration helps extend the reach of educational resources and services to remote areas lacking traditional educational infrastructure.

Mobile learning has truly been instrumental in expanding its reach. Recognizing the ubiquity of smartphones even in rural communities, EdTech platforms are developing mobile learning apps tailored to the needs of these learners. These apps allow for on-demand access to educational content, empowering students to learn anytime, anywhere.

Given the scenario, low-bandwidth solutions are crucial. EdTech platforms are innovating with low-bandwidth solutions to overcome the challenge of poor internet connectivity in rural areas. They’re optimizing platforms and content to function efficiently on limited bandwidth, ensuring that even learners with unreliable internet can access educational materials.

To this Anup Sasidharan, CEO, MBA ESG added, “One of the solutions for Low bandwidth is to develop text or audio content which can be accessed easily than video content. One can also look at optimizing content which can be opened on low-cost mobiles.”

This collaborative approach, coupled with mobile apps and low-bandwidth solutions, is paving the way for a more inclusive educational landscape where students in rural areas have the opportunity to thrive.

“We are exploring low-bandwidth solutions to optimize the delivery of academic content, enabling learners to stream videos or download resources even in low-connectivity regions. By leveraging modern technology, AASOKA empowers students to unlock their full potential, regardless of their location or background,” highlighted Monica Malhotra.

The Rise of AI in EdTech: A Marriage of Innovation and Responsibility

Looking at the road ahead, artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a cornerstone, propelling innovation and transformation in teaching and learning methodologies. Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the EdTech landscape, with a projected global market size exceeding $1.3 trillion by 2024. According to Virtue market research report, the Global EdTech Market was valued at USD 136.92 Billion and is projected to reach a market size of USD 344.72 Billion by the end of 2030. Over the forecast period of 2024-2030, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 14.1%. Artificial intelligence (AI) is indeed making significant changes in the EdTech sector. Additionally, the market size for AI in education technology is estimated to grow to $21.52 billion by 2028 This growth is fueled by AI’s potential to personalize learning, enhance skill development, and promote linguistic inclusivity. However, alongside the benefits come crucial questions about responsible AI use, particularly regarding data privacy and algorithmic bias.

EdTech platforms are actively addressing these concerns and building trust with users. Companies like Zamit prioritize responsible AI practices. They adhere to data protection regulations, anonymize user data, and rigorously test algorithms to minimize bias. This ensures that AI-powered features like personalized learning paths and targeted skill development recommendations benefit all users without infringing on privacy.

Similarly, AASOKA leverages AI for adaptive learning and skill development. Their approach involves meticulously analyzing student data to identify strengths and weaknesses, offering personalized learning plans that can improve learning outcomes by up to 50% . They also prioritize expanding content in diverse Indian languages, promoting linguistic inclusivity and catering to the estimated 124 major languages spoken in India. Industry leaders emphasize the importance of regular audits to detect and rectify algorithmic bias, ensuring that all skills are equally valued within their content.

The potential dangers of AI bias are not ignored. Companies acknowledge the need for transparency about data usage and actively manage algorithmic bias.

Physics Wallah (PW) showcases their AI initiative, Alakh AI – a conversational study companion designed to personalize learning for each student. They emphasize addressing academic and non-academic needs while safeguarding data privacy through secure communication channels.

Similarly, Azent Overseas Education prioritizes ethical AI use in their student application process. They achieve this through clear policies, user data encryption, and active monitoring for bias.

Priyanka Nishar- Founder & Managing Director, Azent Overseas Education emphasizes, “We adopt digital technologies such as data science, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing to improve efficiency and make an otherwise cumbersome university application process much easier for Indian students. Our AI-enabled platform simplifies the overall journey right from test prep to selecting the study destination/university abroad, drafting applications, offering scholarships and visa, thus providing students with an inclusive experience. While facilitating such interactive discussions which also involve secure sharing of important documents and information, we strive to maintain the highest level of confidentiality.” Additionally, they ensure that data privacy considerations are integrated into the development of their AI-powered platform from the outset. This includes implementing robust data encryption, access controls, and anonymization techniques to protect user privacy.

As Dinesh Kumar Poobalan, CEO & CTO of Greatify observes, AI can create engaging learning experiences while fostering connections. By focusing on both innovation and responsibility, EdTech can empower learners of all backgrounds to thrive in the ever-evolving world.

“We investigated the complexities of personalized learning at Greatify, employing AI algorithms to determine specific student demands. As the conversation shifted from ‘How can AI improve education?’ to ‘How can we ensure ethical and responsible use of AI in the educational context?’ The implementation of AI for exam evaluation and personalized learning is our recent innovation, and the next thing we’re coming up with is the PlacementX Module.”

The responsible use of AI in EdTech is vital to ensuring a positive impact on education, and EdTech platforms are demonstrating their commitment to finding the right balance. This paves the way for a future where AI can revolutionize education, bridge the skills gap, and empower millions of learners across India.

Breaking Barriers with Bytes to Brilliance

The future of education in India is brimming with potential, fueled by the transformative power of EdTech. As the education sector embraces continuous learning, EdTech stands poised to revolutionize digital learning, empowering learners, bridging the digital divide, and propelling India’s growth. Industry leaders paint a promising picture of a future where personalized learning and skill development go hand-in-hand.

Aarul Malaviya, Founder of Zamit, highlights that EdTech “enables personalized learning experiences,” catering to individual needs and learning styles. This, coupled with multilingual content, fosters inclusivity for learners from diverse backgrounds. Learners can develop in-demand skills at their own pace, preparing them for the job market, regardless of location or background.

Beyond student benefits, EdTech empowers schools too. Priyanka Nishar of Azent Overseas Education emphasizes the potential for technology-driven learning, streamlined data management, comprehensive teacher training, and tailored educational materials. This holistic approach promises a significant improvement in the overall educational landscape.

Prateek Maheshwari of Physics Wallah, foresees EdTech “liberating the notion of education from the traditional institutional approach” towards a more flexible and accessible model that prioritizes upskilling and reskilling. Maheshwari concludes by highlighting that “The collaborative spirit, technological advancements, and commitment to inclusivity define the education narrative.”

Monica Malhotra Kandhari of AASOKA & MBD Group reiterates the role of EdTech in “reaching millions of students across India,” empowering them with relevant skills. She envisions a future where “digital learning seamlessly integrates into the educational landscape,” ensuring every student has access to quality education.

Advancements like AI and microlearning promise to further redefine the learning experience. AI will become “more engaging, flexible, and driven by proactive AI,” personalizing learning even further. Microlearning – providing comprehensive information in less time – promises to make education more efficient and effective.

The future of EdTech is indeed bright. By harnessing innovation responsibly and fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, government agencies, and educational institutions, EdTech platforms can revolutionize digital learning in India. This will empower learners of all backgrounds, bridge the digital divide, and propel India’s growth and development. As we embrace continuous learning, EdTech stands ready to be a transformative force, shaping the educational narrative for years to come.

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