The Ministry of Education has introduced five free Artificial Intelligence (AI) courses on the SWAYAM portal, providing students and professionals an opportunity to upskill in a transformative field. Designed by IIT professors, the courses go beyond AI fundamentals by linking the technology to diverse disciplines such as cricket, physics, chemistry, and accounting. This interdisciplinary approach makes the initiative unique, ensuring learners understand both theory and real-world applications.
Each course demonstrates how AI can enhance different fields. For instance, the cricket-focused program highlights how machine learning models and analytics can predict player performance, optimize strategies, and improve decision-making. Courses connected to physics and chemistry showcase AI’s role in accelerating research, analyzing experiments, and supporting simulations. The accounting course focuses on practical applications such as auditing, fraud detection, and financial forecasting—crucial tools for the business sector.
Hosting these programs on SWAYAM reflects the government’s vision of democratizing digital learning. SWAYAM, already a platform for free, high-quality courses, now offers AI education accessible to learners nationwide, including those from rural and underserved regions. Participants can also earn certifications, improving their employability and career prospects.
The launch aligns with India’s broader goal of becoming a global hub for AI innovation and complements the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which emphasizes skill-building, digital learning, and integrating advanced subjects into mainstream education. By equipping learners with AI expertise, the initiative prepares India’s workforce for rapidly evolving job markets.
Experts believe this move could encourage other institutions to adopt similar models, integrating AI across disciplines. Beyond technical training, the courses aim to reduce the digital divide by making AI approachable, relatable, and engaging. In doing so, the government is laying a foundation for a digitally empowered, innovation-driven society.
