EDTECH START-UPS IN THE EDUCATION ECOSYSTEM IN THE POST-COVID-19 ERA IN INDIA

Abstract

The widespread and growing use of digital technology is reshaping the teaching-learning process in India. Covid-19 pandemic accelerated such online learning and gave birth to several Education Technology (EdTech) start-ups in India and across the globe. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the forced online has created a digital divide in developing countries like India. The digital divide is not restricted to developing countries but also some developed countries. EdTech companies promise cost-saving, flexible and a personal learning experience (LeX). It is also scalable to reach the unreached population of the country to improve the gross enrollment ratio (GER). These Edtech companies have existed for close to two decades and promised a great future in the education space. The sudden growth of EdTech companies in India also tapped learners' skilling and up-skilling or learning new skills while still enrolling with the colleges and university institutions. As per the funding pattern, India is the most preferred country for Edtech funding by foreign investors. The Government of India has been giving a digital push in the education sector through its various regulatory agencies, fueling growth for Edtech companies in India. The present study evaluates the changing nature of the education ecosystem because of the unexpected impetus of EdTech start-ups in India. The study also explores the potential growth opportunities and sustainability of the Edtech start-ups in India.