Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping the job market, not by eliminating positions, but by transforming the qualifications needed for many roles. Workers who embrace AI are increasingly seen as more valuable compared to those who don’t. In India, this trend is particularly evident. A recent AWS and Access Partnership report reveals that Indian employers are now willing to offer a 54 percent salary increase for employees with AI skills, though 79 percent of these employers find it challenging to locate suitable candidates. Furthermore, a Microsoft study shows that 80 percent of Indian leaders prefer to hire less experienced candidates with AI skills over more seasoned professionals without this expertise. Additionally, 75 percent of employers have stated they wouldn’t hire individuals lacking AI skills.

As the GenAI revolution continues to evolve, it’s establishing new benchmarks for skills and competencies across all sectors, not just in technology. Gaining proficiency in AI can dramatically enhance your career by increasing productivity, fostering innovation, and providing a competitive edge—crucial for maintaining relevance and excelling in a future where AI integration is ubiquitous.

The number of enrollments in GenAI courses has surged dramatically, quadrupling from 2023 to 2024, with one person in India registering for GenAI training every minute.

Raghav Gupta, Managing Director for India and Asia Pacific at Coursera, highlights the top five AI courses popular among Indian learners:

1. Introduction to Generative AI by Google Cloud
   This concise, one-hour course introduces the concepts of GenAI, its various applications, and how it contrasts with traditional machine learning. It provides insights into Google’s tools for developing GenAI applications and is part of the “Introduction to Generative AI Learning Path Specialisation,” which builds towards mastering large language models (LLMs), exploring their applications, and understanding the ethical aspects of AI.
2. Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT by Vanderbilt University
   This course is designed to refine your interaction with AI models like ChatGPT by teaching effective prompt techniques to optimize AI responses. It’s tailored for those looking to enhance their skills in AI-driven communication, offering practical strategies for better leveraging conversational AI.
3. Generative AI for Everyone by DeepLearning.AI
   Led by renowned AI expert Andrew Ng, this entry-level course introduces the basics of GenAI. It simplifies complex ideas by explaining how generative models function, their uses in generating text and images, and their limitations. It’s ideal for anyone interested in exploring the impact of this technology on various fields and its responsible use.
4. Generative AI with Large Language Models by DeepLearning.AI and Amazon Web Services
   This intermediate course delves into generative AI and LLMs, covering the full AI lifecycle from data collection to deployment. It includes detailed discussions on transformer architecture, fine-tuning methods, and empirical scaling laws for optimizing model performance. Prior experience with Python and basic machine learning is recommended for maximizing the course’s benefits.
5. Google AI Essentials by Google
   This beginner-friendly course from Google focuses on enhancing productivity through essential AI skills. Over 10 hours, learners will discover how to use AI tools for idea generation, event planning, and task management. The course also emphasizes effective prompt writing and responsible AI use, including how to identify and mitigate biases.

The rapid increase in GenAI course enrollments in India underscores a strong national commitment to adapting to future job market demands. This trend reflects India’s proactive stance in the AI revolution and its readiness to leverage technological advancements for widespread benefit.