• The Ministry of Education has announced the introduction of free Artificial Intelligence (AI) courses on the SWAYAM Portal, India’s indigenous Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) platform launched in 2017.
• The move comes amid the growing demand for AI-related skills and seeks to equip students with future-ready knowledge.
• SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active–Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) hosts interactive courses ranging from Class 9 to postgraduate level, covering disciplines like Engineering, Science, Humanities, Management, and Arts.
• The platform offers video lectures, downloadable study material, self-assessment quizzes, and discussion forums. While courses are free of cost, students can obtain certificates through proctored examinations for a nominal fee.
• In a major expansion, the government has also launched SWAYAM Plus, a new industry-collaborative platform operated by IIT Madras. This platform will provide career-oriented courses in Manufacturing, Energy, IT/ITES, Management, Healthcare, Hospitality, Tourism, and Indian Knowledge Systems. With features such as multilingual content in 12 Indian languages, AI-enabled guidance, and credit recognition, SWAYAM Plus is designed to enhance the employability of both college students and lifelong learners.
• The initiative is supported by multiple national coordinators, including AICTE, NPTEL, UGC, NCERT, IGNOU, and IIM Bangalore, ensuring quality education across diverse fields.