Edtech unicorn upGrad has announced a strategic partnership with the Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) to provide career opportunities for military veterans and their dependents. This initiative aims to support ex-servicemen, their spouses, young graduates, and widows of martyrs in transitioning smoothly into India’s corporate workforce.

Through this collaboration, upGrad will offer training programs tailored to meet industry requirements. These programs will cover key domains such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Marketing, Data Science, and vocational courses. By focusing on both white-collar and blue-collar roles, the initiative seeks to drive strong economic and social inclusion for military families.

AWPO, established in May 1999 under the Adjutant General’s Branch of the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army), is a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing second career opportunities for retiring and retired Army personnel, their dependents, and widows. The organisation facilitates job placements across government, semi-government, and corporate sectors. As of January 2025, AWPO has successfully placed more than 1,30,000 veterans, including Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), Other Ranks (ORs), and their dependents, strengthening the placement ecosystem for ex-army professionals in India.

Major Gen Ajay Singh Chauhan, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal (Retd) and Head of AWPO, stated, “Many military personnel retire between the ages of 35-40, making career transitions crucial for their financial stability.” He noted that while veterans bring valuable experience, their skills need to be aligned with industry demands. “The partnership with upGrad will enable veterans to enhance their skill sets, making them industry-ready and ensuring successful career transitions.”

AWPO operates through 17 regional offices, including in Jammu & Kashmir, and in the past year, it has placed over 16,000 JCOs, 450 officers, and 300 widows or dependents in various corporate sectors.

Srikanth Iyengar, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of upGrad Enterprise, emphasized the company’s commitment to skilling and career development, stating, “This partnership aligns with India’s broader economic and workforce development goals.” He highlighted that while army personnel bring unmatched discipline, leadership, and resilience, upGrad will provide tailored training to enhance their soft skills and business acumen, ensuring a seamless transition from military to corporate roles.