OpenAI has introduced its India-first Learning Accelerator to transform education through artificial intelligence, kicking off with a $500,000 collaboration with IIT Madras. The initiative will explore how AI can enhance learning outcomes, support innovative teaching methods, and align with cognitive neuroscience insights.
Leah Belsky, VP of Education at OpenAI, highlighted the potential of ChatGPT in India: “Learning is one of the top uses of ChatGPT for students and adults across the country. Our focus is on making the platform more effective for Indian learners, including local language support and curriculum-aligned guidance.”
Through this accelerator, OpenAI will distribute 500,000 ChatGPT licenses and provide training for students and educators over the next six months. The rollout will be supported in partnership with the Ministry of Education, AICTE, and ARISE.
With over 300 million students in India, the program is designed to meet diverse educational needs, from top-tier institutions like IITs to rural schools with limited resources. Belsky added, “Students and parents want ChatGPT to function more like a tutor than just an answer machine. Our Study Mode is already aligned with CBSE and IIT entrance exam requirements.”
To strengthen local engagement, Raghav Gupta has been appointed as OpenAI’s Head of Education for India and Asia Pacific. He will lead efforts to make AI tools accessible across schools and universities, working closely with teachers to enhance lesson planning, student engagement, and assignments.
OpenAI’s Learning Accelerator represents a strategic step toward embedding AI into India’s education system, combining cutting-edge technology with practical training to benefit millions of students nationwide.
