SAP, the global enterprise applications and business AI company, has announced new programmes to help two million people in India gain AI ready skills by 2030, as part of its global goal to train 12 million worldwide.
The company is building on its existing learning, certification and workforce development initiatives, working with government, universities, industry partners and community organisations to expand access to practical skills in AI, cloud, data and enterprise technologies.
India already plays a leading role in the global digital workforce, with 28% of the world’s STEM talent and 23% of software engineers. Demand is clear: India accounts for nearly half of SAP’s certified learners worldwide.
SAP’s approach covers several areas, including government partnerships, academic links, professional upskilling and inclusive pathways.
Collaborating with state governments and skill development bodies it aligns training with regional needs. Initiatives such as the Future Right Skills Network combine AI learning with communication skills and industry exposure for vocational students. Through SAP University Alliances and SAP Learning Hub Student Edition, students gain hands on experience and certification pathways. Joint programmes, such as the Career Readiness Training with PwC India and KIIT Bhubaneswar, connect classroom learning with industry practice.
SAP’s certification portfolio supports students, early career talent and professionals with role based learning, practical projects and performance based assessments.
Initiatives such as Code Unnati, Digital Academy and AI Careers for Women bring training to women, unemployed graduates and youth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, combining technical education with mentoring and career guidance.
“Preparing Indian talent for the next wave of innovation requires sustained investment in how people learn, apply their skills, and apply that in their careers,” said Manish Prasad, president and managing director, SAP Indian Subcontinent. He added, “Of the 2 million people we expect to train in AI skills before 2030, nearly 13 per cent have already participated through certification, student education and community programmes. These include employees of SAP customers, partners and employees who are already building professional expertise; as well as students exploring SAP technologies, and underserved communities gaining access to STEM learning.”
SAP’s pledge highlights how AI skilling is becoming a national workforce priority. The focus is not just on teaching technology, but on connecting skills with real workplace outcomes. By combining government, academia and industry, SAP is helping India strengthen its talent base, widen access to digital careers, and prepare a diverse workforce for the AI economy.
