upGrad, an online learning platform, is expanding its reach with 100 offline ‘Connect and Counselling’ centres and ‘Learning Centres’ across India. This strategic move aims to augment online growth by providing personalised career guidance and access to upGrad’s learning suite in non-metro and smaller towns.
The initiative builds upon upGrad’s existing network of over 50 franchises and 150 channel partners. The first two counselling centres in Mumbai and Delhi, along with learning centres in Indore and Pune, have already seen strong initial response, with over 500 career counselling sessions conducted in the first 30 days.
upGrad has earmarked an initial investment of Rs 100 crore to accelerate expansion over the next year, targeting to counsel over half a million individuals and enrol over 10,000 learners through these centres.
“India has a unique opportunity to dominate global talent markets,” says Mayank Kumar, co-founder and MD of upGrad. “We are integrating our offerings to empower all age groups with career guidance and high-quality learning, encompassing both long and short-format courses.”
These centres will act as hubs for career counselling, upskilling, and reskilling, offering access to all upGrad’s courses and programs in one place. This personalised approach aims to resonate with potential and existing learners, supporting them in making informed career decisions and navigating their upskilling journey.
upGrad’s offline expansion aligns with its vision to provide accessible and relevant learning opportunities across India, bridging the digital divide and fuelling the nation’s talent pool for global competitiveness.