New Delhi, August 25, 2025 — OpenAI has launched its India-first Learning Accelerator initiative, a bold step to revolutionize AI-driven education across the country. At the core of this initiative is a ₹4.5 crore (US \$500,000) research grant to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), aimed at exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance teaching methods and learning outcomes in the Indian context.
Empowering India’s Educational Ecosystem
The partnership positions India as a key “lighthouse” in OpenAI’s global educational strategy, reflecting the country’s growing influence in AI adoption among learners.
Beyond the grant, OpenAI is pledging 500,000 free ChatGPT licenses to educators and students in government schools and AICTE-regulated institutions, extending AI tools into the hands of millions across the nation.
A Research Focused on Cognitive Neuroscience
Under the grant, IIT Madras, in collaboration with OpenAI, will conduct long-term research that delves into leveraging cognitive neuroscience to enhance educational methods. The institution will study how AI can support not only academic outcomes but also innovative teaching practices. The insights produced will be publicly available and will inform the design of future AI-powered educational tools.
Strategic Partnerships for Education and Training
In addition to IIT Madras, OpenAI’s program connects with various Indian educational bodies:
- Ministry of Education: To facilitate ChatGPT access for teachers in government schools (Grades 1–12), focusing on course planning and student engagement.
- AICTE: To extend ChatGPT tools to technical institutes nationwide, boosting digital literacy and employability.
- ARISE Member Schools: To integrate AI tools into K–12 education for more personalized and responsive teaching.
Leadership and Future of the Initiative
OpenAI has appointed Raghav Gupta—formerly Managing Director of Coursera (India & APAC)—as its Head of Education for India and Asia-Pacific. He will spearhead efforts to expand access to AI tools within the educational sector.
The announcement precedes OpenAI’s plan to open its first office in New Delhi later this year and a forthcoming visit by CEO Sam Altman, signaling a deepening engagement with the Indian education ecosystem.
Why This Matters
India now claims the highest per-capita usage of ChatGPT globally, particularly among students. The Learning Accelerator aims to harness this trend responsibly, ensuring technology enhances—not shortcuts—learning. Key components include AI literacy training programs and model support tailored to India’s curriculum.
In Summary
OpenAI’s Learning Accelerator is a landmark investment in India’s educational future—enabling AI-powered pedagogy, widening access through half a million free AI tools, and transforming learning through neuroscience-backed research with IIT Madras.
As the ecosystem evolves, education stakeholders anticipate meaningful improvements in teaching efficacy, student engagement, and scalable learning solutions, setting a precedent for AI in education globally.
