New Delhi, India — December 19, 2025: IBM (NYSE: IBM) has announced a significant initiative aimed at skilling 5 million learners across India in the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, and Quantum Computing by 2030. This commitment reflects IBM’s dedication to fostering an equitable, future-ready workforce, enhancing access to advanced digital skills and improving employability for both students and adult learners.
The initiative will leverage IBM SkillsBuild, an educational program designed to expand AI and emerging technology education across schools, universities, and vocational training ecosystems. IBM plans to partner with institutions like the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to implement hands-on AI learning pathways, faculty enablement programs, and curriculum integration, as well as host hackathons and internships.
“India possesses the talent and ambition to lead the world in AI & Quantum. Fluency in frontier technologies will define economic competitiveness, scientific progress and societal transformation,” stated Arvind Krishna, IBM Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. “Our commitment to skill five million people is an investment in that future. By democratizing access to advanced skills, we are enabling the youth and students to build, innovate, and accelerate India’s growth.”
As part of this initiative, IBM is focusing on school-level preparedness by co-developing an AI curriculum for senior secondary students. This includes teaching resources such as the AI Project Cookbook, Teacher Handbook, and explainer modules. These educational materials aim to instill computational thinking and responsible AI principles early in the learning process, while equipping teachers to deliver AI education confidently and at scale.
Central to this initiative is IBM SkillsBuild, recognized as one of the world’s most accessible technology learning ecosystems. The program currently offers over 1,000 courses covering AI, cybersecurity, Quantum Computing, Cloud technologies, Data management, Sustainability, and workplace readiness for learners, educators, and institutions. With more than 16 million learners globally, SkillsBuild plays a crucial role in IBM’s goal to train 30 million people worldwide by 2030, positioning India as a key accelerant to achieving that objective.
The emphasis on AI education comes at a time when the demand for skilled professionals in technology fields is soaring. As industries increasingly integrate AI and advanced technologies, the need for a workforce that is well-versed in these areas becomes crucial for maintaining competitive advantages both locally and globally. IBM’s initiative not only aims to fill this skills gap but also seeks to empower individuals to partake in the digital economy actively.
IBM’s broader mission encompasses not just technology training but also a commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity, and service, which are integral to their global operations. This initiative underscores the company’s long-term strategy to catalyze economic growth and innovation by enhancing the capabilities of the workforce in emerging technology sectors.
As educational institutions and corporate entities increasingly recognize the importance of advanced digital skills, IBM’s program may serve as a model for similar initiatives worldwide. This strategic push towards an educated, digitally skilled workforce could have lasting implications for India’s economic landscape, potentially positioning it as a leader in the global technology arena.
About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of hybrid cloud and AI solutions, along with consulting expertise, helping clients in over 175 countries leverage data to enhance business operations and gain competitive edges in their industries. Governments and corporations across critical sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, and healthcare rely on IBM’s technologies for effective digital transformations. With innovations in AI, Quantum Computing, and industry-specific cloud solutions, IBM remains committed to delivering flexible options that align with client needs.
For further information, visit www.ibm.com.
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