Early-career professionals drive demand for industry-aligned education
New Delhi, May 16 – Online upskilling programmes offered by top-tier institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are witnessing a significant rise in enrolments, particularly among young professionals aiming to thrive in an evolving job landscape.According to the latest Technopak Advisors report titled ‘Online Higher Education, Certification and Upskilling Market in India’, around 70 per cent of participants in these courses have less than three years of work experience, highlighting a growing inclination for flexible and industry-relevant education.
Focus on Future-Ready Skills: AI, EVs, Big Data, and Management
These online programmes are tailored to cover high-demand sectors including artificial intelligence, big data, electric vehicles, business management, and leadership. With a hybrid delivery model, professionals are able to enhance their skill sets without pausing their careers.Beyond early professionals, seasoned entrepreneurs and executives are also signing up to gain a competitive edge. Dr. Girish Mohan Gupta, 84, who completed an executive MBA from IIM, shared, “These courses are not just theoretical — they are very helpful in solving real-world business problems. I’ve learned how to grow money — and more importantly, how to protect it.”
Learning Platforms See Spike in Professional Enrolments
Edtech platforms such as Jaro Education, Simplilearn, TimesPro, and TalentEdge have reported increased participation in their offerings. Jaro Education notes that 50 per cent of its learners have more than two years of experience, with 23 per cent having over five years in the workforce.“Upskilling is helping bridge the gap between industry needs and professional knowledge,” said Ranjita Raman, CEO of Jaro Education. “Courses related to electric vehicles and artificial intelligence are in high demand because they are aligned with the future of work.”
Micro-Credentials Gain Employer Recognition
A supporting trend is the rising acceptance of micro-credentials among Indian employers. Coursera’s Micro-Credentials Impact Report 2025 reveals that 97 per cent of employers are open to offering higher starting salariesto candidates with such certifications. Additionally, 95 per cent believe micro-credentials cut down training costs, and 98 per cent say they enhance candidate competitiveness.Technological Change Fuels Continuous Learning
Rapid technological shifts across industries are cited as the primary driver for this upskilling momentum. “With the constant evolution of technology, companies are being forced to adopt new tools, platforms and business models,” said Prof Diwahar Nadar of IIM Sambalpur. “Upskilling is no longer optional — it is the only way to stay employable.”Professionals are actively enrolling in courses related to cybersecurity, data analytics, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and management to remain adaptable and future-proof their careers.