In an exclusive conversation with CNBC-TV18, Hart emphasized that India could reap significant benefits from AI adoption, provided it prepares its workforce with the necessary skills for the evolving job landscape.
“The Indian government anticipates that AI could contribute approximately 40% to the economy by 2035. However, this potential can only be realized if India focuses on upskilling and reskilling its people,” Hart noted.
He highlighted India as one of Coursera’s key markets, signifying its importance not just as a consumer base, but also in the development of the company’s products and operations.
“Over 20% of our workforce is based in India, encompassing not just engineering and product roles but also data, operations, marketing, finance, sales, and content,” he shared.
Hart mentioned that India ranks as Coursera’s second-largest market in terms of registered learners, just after the United States, and he anticipates that India will surpass the US in the near future.
“I believe India will overtake the US in the coming years in terms of sheer learner numbers,” he added.
He noted that Coursera is collaborating closely with the government through Karmayogi Bharat and considers this initiative a vital contributor to the overarching Viksit Bharat vision.
Additionally, Coursera is concentrating on universities and microcredentials, benefiting from India’s progressive view on online education.
“The Indian government’s forward-thinking policy on online learning, which allows up to 40% of credits to be earned online, propels us to work with the NSQF to ensure as many microcredentials as possible are credit-eligible,” Hart said.
He pointed out that employers in India are increasingly valuing students who enhance their degrees with industry-recognized credentials.
“We observe robust demand from both students and employers. Indian companies are prepared to offer higher salaries to graduates who hold not only degrees but also microcredentials,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Coursera has cut prices in India by about 60%, a decision Hart believes has made their offerings more reachable.
“We are delighted that our services have become more affordable, thus accessible to a wider demographic. This has significantly contributed to our growth acceleration,” he explained.
Hart also mentioned the pressing need for workforce transformation in India as AI alters industries and job roles, necessitating ongoing learning throughout the economy.
“There is a substantial demand in India for the services that Coursera and Udemy provide,” he stated.
Watch the full conversation here
