Mon Jan 12 10:34:55 UTC 2026: ### Headline: IIMs Expand Free Online Education Initiative in 2026, Targeting Tech Skills Gap

The Story:
In 2026, Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are significantly expanding access to higher education by offering free online courses through the SWAYAM portal. The courses, covering critical fields like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Blockchain, Sales, and Public Relations, aim to bridge the skills gap and equip students and professionals with in-demand knowledge. Registrations are currently open, marking a significant step toward democratizing access to high-quality business and technology education.

Key Points:

  • IIMs are offering free online courses in 2026 via the SWAYAM portal.
  • The courses cover AI, Machine Learning, Blockchain, Sales, and Public Relations.
  • Registrations are open to both students and professionals.
  • The initiative aims to address the growing skills gap in emerging technologies.

Critical Analysis:

Given the context, the proliferation of online scams (Hyderabad man loses ₹27 lakh in online trading scam) and concerns surrounding AI misuse (Opinion | Grok Is Undressing People Online. Here’s How to Fix It.) may be key drivers for the IIMs’ initiative. The IIMs are strategically responding to the need for a more skilled and ethically aware workforce to combat these challenges. They are trying to get ahead of the curve.

Key Takeaways:

  • The IIMs are proactively addressing the skills gap in emerging technologies through free online education.
  • The courses are accessible to a wide audience, promoting inclusivity in education.
  • The initiative signals a commitment to building a workforce capable of navigating the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements and growing online scams.
  • The timing suggests a reactive measure to combat online crimes and AI misuse prevalent in the current digital landscape.

Impact Analysis:

The IIMs’ free online courses are likely to have a long-term impact on the Indian job market. By equipping individuals with skills in high-demand fields, the initiative could:

  • Reduce the unemployment rate, particularly among graduates struggling to find relevant employment.
  • Boost innovation and entrepreneurship as more individuals gain expertise in emerging technologies.
  • Increase India’s competitiveness in the global technology landscape.
  • Mitigate the risks associated with AI misuse and online scams by fostering a more digitally literate and ethically aware population.

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