HCLTech has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati to offer employees enrolled in TechBee, an early-career development programme by the company, to advance their education in AI technologies.
Eligible HCLTech employees would be offered a four-year online BSc degree in data science and AI. According to the company’s official statement, this initiative aims to equip employees with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving tech landscape and prepare them for future leadership roles.
“[The programme] has been designed to offer accessible, high-quality education that empowers students to thrive in the ever-evolving technology landscape,” Devendra Jalihal, director of IIT Guwahati, said.
In October last year, HCLTech launched its advanced AI transformation academy with another tech company, Multiverse, to upskill its workforce in AI and GenAI. This initiative aimed to deliver significant business value to its clients with AI solutions while boosting overall productivity.
HCLTech said it would select UK-based employees for a 13-month ‘AI for Business Value’ programme focused on AI’s business benefits and ethics. This initiative also supports HCLTech’s goal to upskill 50,000 employees in GenAI by 2025.
Moreover, Assam is making notable strides in introducing AI technologies in its education system. This week, the Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB) also announced three new elective subjects—AI, financial literacy, and sign language—for higher secondary students starting this academic year.
Assam introduces AI, Sign Language and Financial Literacy as electives for Higher Secondary students to empower future-ready youth. https://t.co/lXAiaucS7z
— Chief Minister Assam (@CMOfficeAssam) May 16, 2025
A three-day residential AI training programme for school teachers was held at IIT Guwahati on May 14. The Assam Tribune reported that the initiative represents a significant step in preparing students for the changing demands of a digital economy. The state education minister, Ranoj Pegu, said the programme also aims to equip them with essential life skills and promote inclusivity.
Along with the rest of Northeast India, last year, Assam introduced Iris, an AI teacher represented in the traditional ‘Mekhela Chador’, who promptly answered all the questions by students in a private school.
According to the International Council for Education, Research and Training (ICERT), AI has transformed education by introducing AI-powered tools that enhance the learning experience, making it more engaging and personalised. “AI-driven analytics are also helping administrators optimise resource allocation and identify areas of improvement,” the report read.
