Content area
Full text
SWAYAM offers free IIT courses online, democratising access to quality education with optional low-cost certification and credit recognition.
In the perpetually changing world of work, where artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and reshaping jobs, the importance of continuous skill development is vital. While predicting the future of work is difficult, but what remains certain is the need to stay relevant, competitive, and adaptable. Lifelong learning has become essential for students, professionals, and anyone seeking to innovate or secure stability in a fast-moving environment.
This is where SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active–Learning for Young Aspiring Minds), the Government of India’s massive open online course (MOOC) platform, plays a vital role. By partnering with leading institutes such as the IITs, SWAYAM opens access to high-quality education that would otherwise be limited to those clearing competitive exams like the JEE. It removes barriers, encourages open enrolment, and makes advanced learning available to anyone with a will to study.
Why SWAYAM is unique for IIT courses
SWAYAM goes beyond simple e-learning by providing interactive lectures, assignments, and discussion forums. The teaching is led by professors from India’s premier IITs, with the same rigour as in-classroom programmes.
Key differentiators include:
* No entry barrier: Anyone can register—high school student, university learner, or working professional.
* Autonomy: Courses are self-paced, with flexible schedules.
* Certification: Learners can sit for an exam for a nominal fee (Rs 500–1000). Certificates issued by IITs or NPTEL add credibility to CVs and are recognised by universities and employers.
* Credit transfer: Select courses are eligible for academic...