OpenAI has launched the OpenAI Academy India in partnership with the IndiaAI Mission, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. This marks OpenAI’s first international expansion of its educational initiative, with India at the centre of its ambitions to democratise access to AI skills.
Aiming Wide: Students, Teachers, Startups, and More
The newly unveiled programme is designed to serve a wide and diverse audience, ranging from school students and developers to civil servants, nonprofit workers, and small business owners. Content will initially be available in English and Hindi, with plans to include more regional languages down the line.
As per the memorandum of understanding signed between OpenAI and IndiaAI, this academy supports the ‘FutureSkills’ pillar of the IndiaAI Mission. It aims to equip the Indian population with tools and training for AI, through a blend of online learning and on-ground engagements.
API Credits, Hackathons, and Global Exposure
To support early-stage innovation, OpenAI will offer up to $100,000 in API credits to 50 fellows or startups chosen by IndiaAI. The company will also conduct periodic webinars and workshops across six cities, facilitated by domain experts and partner organisations.
Adding a competitive twist, hackathons will be organised in collaboration with IndiaAI, with winners receiving an opportunity to attend the OpenAI Dev Day abroad — a major global showcase for AI enthusiasts and developers.
One Million Teachers, 25,000 Students in the Pipeline
OpenAI is setting the bar high, announcing plans to train one million teachers in using generative AI tools. In parallel, hackathons across seven states will engage around 25,000 students, fostering early adoption and practical experience with cutting-edge technology.
The educational materials will be distributed via both the FutureSkills platform and iGOT Karmayogi, the government’s training portal for public officials. “Initially in English and Hindi,” the release notes, “with future support for four more regional languages.”
A New Chapter for AI Literacy in India
Calling the initiative a landmark step, IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, “This initiative represents a significant advancement toward our shared objective of making knowledge and technology more accessible.” He underscored the importance of giving startups, researchers, and developers access to the latest AI frameworks and tools to build faster and better.
Jason Kwon, Chief Strategy Officer at OpenAI, echoed the sentiment: “India is one of the most dynamic countries in the world for AI development, with a remarkable pace of adoption and innovation. We’re proud to partner with IndiaAI to launch OpenAI Academy India and help more people gain the confidence and skills to use AI meaningfully in their work and communities.”
With an expansive Knowledge Hub that includes tutorials, videos, hands-on modules, expert-led workshops, and peer learning forums, OpenAI Academy India is shaping up to be a powerhouse of AI learning, tailored for India, and open to all.
