AI is foundational to how modern EdTech and Skilltech platforms operate

From driving hyper-personalised learning journeys to real-time doubt resolution and adaptive content delivery, AI is helping platforms deliver scalable, high-impact education across diverse learner segments, says Ankur Dhawan, Chief Product & Technology Officer, upGrad.

- By Sunil Rajguru

Pre-Covid we had the Normal and New Normal during Covid. How would you describe the post-Covid Normal, when it comes to online education — or are things still in a state of flux?

The pandemic fundamentally reshaped the perception of online education—it moved from being a backup or stopgap solution to becoming mainstream and mission-critical for career advancement. Universities began collaborating with online platforms to scale accessibility, and employers, too, recognised the value of digitally delivered, outcome-oriented learning. That said, Edtech is an umbrella term, and most of the tailwinds and later, the churn—during and post-pandemic were seen in the K-12 and test-prep segments, where online learning became the norm temporarily, only to retract once physical infrastructure reopened.

At upGrad, we operate in a very different space—higher education, skilling, and workforce development. Our learners aren't motivated by FOMO or forced shifts; they are fresh graduates or working professionals actively choosing to upskill in new-age domains like AI, data science, leadership, and more to stay relevant in a changing job market. So while the delivery format has stabilised, what's truly changed is the mindset. Upskilling is no longer optional. Post-Covid, individuals and employers alike see it as a strategic necessity—a career springboard and a clear ROI driver.

How much Al and GenAl is being used in EdTech? Will models like DeepSeek affect this field?

Al is no longer a support layer—it’s now foundational to how modern Edtech and Skilltech platforms operate. From driving hyper-personalised learning journeys to real-time doubt resolution and adaptive content delivery, Al is helping platforms deliver scalable, high-impact education across diverse learner segments.