OpenAI launches learning accelerator in India to bring AI into classrooms

OpenAI has officially rolled out the OpenAI Learning Accelerator, a groundbreaking initiative tailored specifically for India, aiming to enhance the integration of artificial intelligence in educational settings. This program was unveiled during the preliminary events of the upcoming India AI Action Summit 2026. India boasts the world's largest student base utilizing ChatGPT, with millions turning to the platform for assistance with assignments, exam prep, and creative brainstorming. The Learning Accelerator is designed to ensure that AI serves to enhance learning experiences rather than replace traditional educational methods, equipping teachers with cutting-edge tools to aid their instruction. Key collaborations with prominent institutions such as IIT Madras, AICTE, the Ministry of Education, and ARISE schools are central to the initiative. The program focuses on four primary objectives: promoting research, increasing accessibility to AI, providing training, and implementing new educational tools. In a significant commitment, OpenAI has allocated $500,000 to IIT Madras to support long-term research aimed at improving educational outcomes and teaching methodologies, leveraging insights from cognitive neuroscience. Over the next six months, OpenAI plans to distribute approximately 500,000 ChatGPT licenses to educators and students through its partnerships. Additionally, training programs will be established to enhance AI literacy among participants. Leah Belsky, OpenAI's Vice President of Education, emphasized the importance of collaboration with educators and institutions, stating, "AI holds tremendous potential to empower both teachers and learners. We must work alongside educators to unlock this potential. This initiative is vital to OpenAI's mission of ensuring that AGI benefits humanity and marks one of our most substantial investments in India's educational landscape." The initiative also features the introduction of ChatGPT Study Mode, envisioned as a personalized tutoring tool that aids students with interactive questioning and structured feedback. To solidify its presence in the region, OpenAI has appointed Raghav Gupta as the Head of Education for India and Asia Pacific, leveraging his extensive experience at the crossroads of education and technology. Gupta remarked, "By collaborating closely with universities, schools, government entities, and educators, we have a unique opportunity to revolutionize education through AI, fostering improved learning outcomes while supporting India's aspirations to emerge as a global leader in AI-driven education." This announcement is a continuation of OpenAI’s increasing commitment to India, which includes the establishment of its first office in New Delhi later this year, the launch of a ChatGPT Go subscription priced at ₹399, and enhanced support for Indic languages in the forthcoming GPT-5 model.