upGrad, a pioneering force in integrated learning, skilling, and workforce development, is set to revolutionize the industry. It plans to expand its product diaspora by harnessing the power of AI to translate popular Bootcamps & Certs into vernacular languages. This innovative approach, spearheaded by Asheesh Sharma, President of Certifications and Bootcamps at upGrad, is a game-changer. He notes, “Over 40% of upGrad’s learner base in India is from Tier 2 cities and beyond where regional languages are more prevalent than English”. This strategic move to improve communication and the learning experience is a testament to upGrad’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
upGrad’s approach to learning is not just about technology but also about people. The company aims to combine pedagogy with strong human interventions in the form of counsellors and buddies who can speak local languages. This unique blend of technology and human touch makes learning accessible and convenient for learners from the vast national diaspora. The catalogue, designed based on regional insights and demand, includes courses in Engineering, Data Science, AI, Cloud Computing, DevOps, UI/UX, and Agile Project Management. Phase 2 will target Cybersecurity, Blockchain, Product Management, Business analysis, and ITIL, with foreign languages like Spanish and Chinese. Over 5 lakh learners have been enrolled in the past with the most demand coming out of Bengaluru, New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Odisha, Pune, Chennai, and Kolkata among others.
Utilizing an in-house tech tool, counsellors will address inquiries related to one’s education, background, interests, and career aspirations to ensure effective guidance and decision-making. This approach is aligned with the GOI’s goal of developing cultural connection and cognitive growth among India’s youth. It aims to close the gap between precisely picking the right programme/domain and achieving one’s desired career goals, thereby contributing to the nation’s human resource development.
Addressing the company’s objective, Sharma stated:
Most scepticism today is fed inorganically and needs a more substantial course correction. Online is an incredible tool that has come a long way from being a VC tool vs. an interactive and immersive format that’s hands-on and accessible at any given point. Considering that only 7 to 8% of graduates in India are deemed employable, our objective is to substantially elevate this figure by providing millions with some initial support or springboard to get closer to their career aspirations.
He added:
We’ve already deployed AI across our operations much before it became the buzzword for building on to learner engagements; we are now taking it a notch higher by harnessing its impact into our curriculum and teaching. There’s wider acceptance and a sense of openness amongst professionals of all age groups.
The company invests significantly in AI-related developments internally, and the onset of FY25 marks a vital growth and transformative year for the brand. It may also extend these services to its Enterprise arm to further personalize corporate training sessions, making them accessible to all strata. India being the HQ, the brand has witnessed 100% YoY growth in overall enrolments and further claims to double down its annual active learners in the next year.
upGrad, founded in 2015, provides various online and hybrid skilling programmes, certifications, and bootcamps under its B2C portfolio. The platform also allows leading Indian and global universities to give diplomas, master’s degrees, and executive doctorates. In addition, the B2B model includes select programmes customized for enterprise clients and other recruitment and employment services. The firm has enrolled over 10 million students from 70 countries, has a network of 300+ direct global university partners, a diverse portfolio of 2500+ pathway connections, and an enterprise arm with 3000 corporate partners worldwide.
