Candidates who have completed certificate and degree courses from education technology platforms in fields like data engineering, digital marketing, and product management are highly sought after by companies, according to placement officers in colleges. These candidates, who have completed courses from platforms like upGrad and GenNext, have reported receiving an average annual package of Rs 25 lakh from employers.
These candidates have been hired across various sectors such as technology, banking, financial services, insurance, media, and entertainment. One student, Ashwin Nair, who completed a master’s in computer management and took a data analytics course from an edtech online company, mentioned that his skills in data analytics helped him secure a job at a multinational company. He also received a good package, which made the investment in additional courses worthwhile.
Apoorva Palkar, the Director at the Centre for Innovation, Incubation, and Linkages at Savitribai Phule Pune University, highlighted the growing importance of industrial certifications in the hiring process. She mentioned that these certifications provide newer skill sets that employers are looking for, but the type of course taken also matters. Apoorva also added that business students who take courses in specific skill sets can find opportunities in the marketing and communications field. Traditional marketing practices are evolving, and digital and virtual spaces are gaining importance.
Mayank Kumar, the co-founder and managing director of upGrad, commented on two key edtech trends observed in the past year. Firstly, there has been significant investment in edtech, leading to consolidation and emphasizing the value and potential of the industry. Secondly, more universities are moving online, resulting in an overcrowded market with various courses, which raises the challenge of maintaining quality.
Shrushti Mundada, a candidate who received a job offer of Rs 28 lakh per annum, mentioned that employers are willing to pay a good price for candidates who have acquired additional skills beyond their degrees, which are in demand in the industry. Companies are competing to hire the best talent, and this has drastically changed the hiring landscape and compensation approach. Learners are motivated to upskill themselves to take advantage of these opportunities.
Educators suggest that students should utilize online platforms to learn additional skills that will make them job-ready and relevant in their careers.
