OpenAI Launches India-First “Learning Accelerator” to Transform Education

On August 25, 2025, OpenAI announced “Learning Accelerator”—an India-first program designed to revolutionize how artificial intelligence transforms education across the subcontinent.

Key Highlights

500,000 ChatGPT Licenses: Over the next six months, OpenAI will distribute five lakh free ChatGPT licences to educators and students in government schools (Classes 1–12), AICTE-regulated technical institutes, and ARISE member schools.

$500,000 Research Grant to IIT Madras: OpenAI has committed $500,000 (approximately ₹4.5 cr) to support long-term research at IIT Madras.

The studies will explore how AI can enhance learning outcomes and teaching methods, informed by cognitive neuroscience insights. Results will be shared openly.

Leadership Appointment: OpenAI has appointed Raghav Gupta, former Managing Director of Coursera for Asia Pacific, as the Head of Education for India & APAC.

He will lead the strategy, partnerships, and implementation of AI-driven education programs.

Strong Youth Adoption: According to Leah Belsky, VP of Education at OpenAI, 50% of ChatGPT users in India are under 24 years old, primarily using the app for studying and exam preparation—underscoring India’s importance to the company.

Strategic Partners: OpenAI is collaborating with the Ministry of Education, AICTE, and ARISE schools to roll out training, AI literacy, and access to specialized tools like ChatGPT Study Mode, designed for step-by-step learning aligned with Indian curricula.

Key Study Mode Features:

• 11 Indian Language Support: Available in Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, Odia, and Assamese.
• Multimodal Learning: Integrates voice, image, and text for comprehensive learning experiences.
• Socratic Questioning: Uses guided inquiry methods developed with teachers and pedagogy experts.
• Personalized Responses: Adapts to individual skill levels and learning objectives.
• Mobile-Friendly Design: Accessible on basic smartphones for rural and urban students alike.

Broader India Strategy: 

This launch builds on previous India-focused moves, including the upcoming New Delhi office, the launch of ChatGPT Go (₹399/month with UPI support), expanded Indic language capabilities in GPT-5, and the OpenAI Academy in partnership with India’s IndiaAI Mission and MeitY.

Future Implications

This landmark initiative positions India as a central laboratory for AI-powered education innovation, with potential implications extending far beyond the subcontinent.

As OpenAI continues to invest in local partnerships, research, and infrastructure, the Indian education sector may serve as a model for integrating artificial intelligence into learning systems worldwide.

News Gist

OpenAI launched its first India-focused education initiative, the Learning Accelerator, on August 25, 2025.

The program includes 500,000 free ChatGPT licenses, a $500k IIT Madras research grant, AI literacy training, and local partnerships, reinforcing India’s role as OpenAI’s education hub.

FAQs

Q1. What is OpenAI’s Learning Accelerator in India?

It is OpenAI’s first India-focused education initiative to integrate AI in classrooms through ChatGPT licenses, research, and AI literacy programs.

Q2. When was it launched?

The initiative was launched on August 25, 2025.

Q3. How many ChatGPT licenses will be distributed?

OpenAI will distribute 500,000 free ChatGPT licenses to students and educators in government schools, AICTE institutes, and ARISE schools.

Q4. What role does IIT Madras play?

OpenAI is granting $500,000 to IIT Madras for long-term research on how AI can improve learning outcomes and pedagogy.

Q5. Who will lead the program in India?

Raghav Gupta, former Coursera APAC Managing Director, has been appointed as Head of Education for India & APAC.

Q6. Why is India important to OpenAI’s strategy?

India has one of the largest student populations, with 50% of ChatGPT users under 24, making it a crucial education and innovation hub.