NEW DELHI – Two Indian students and one Indian educator have been shortlisted as finalists for the World Education Medals 2025. The announcement was made Thursday, placing them among 15 global competitors recognized for innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education.
Raul John Aju , a 16-year-old student from Kerala, and Bengaluru student Ashwat Prasanna are among five finalists in the “Students” category. Vineeta Garg , Head of IT at a Delhi school, is one of five finalists in the “Educators” category.
Indian Innovators and Their Projects
Raul John Aju, founder of AIrealm Technologies Pvt Ltd, earned his nomination for ThinkCraft Academy . This initiative democratizes AI education. It develops curricula and resources to make advanced AI concepts accessible. ThinkCraft Academy serves students from rural schools to global universities, aiming to bridge educational divides.
Ashwat Prasanna, founder of EyeSight, received recognition for making science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education accessible. His projects use AI tools to adapt complex scientific content. These adaptations allow visually impaired students to engage with STEM subjects effectively. The work promotes inclusivity in critical academic fields.
Vineeta Garg’s selection in the Educator category highlights her initiative, EmpowerED with AI . This program develops comprehensive multilingual AI resources. It includes accessible tools and gamified learning platforms. EmpowerED with AI equips students and teachers with skills to understand, use, and create with AI technology, enhancing digital literacy.
About the World Education Medals
HP established the World Education Medals to spotlight individuals transforming education with AI. The initiative aims to close learning gaps and foster equitable learning opportunities. Medals celebrate global achievers across three categories: Leaders, Educators, and Students. Recipients demonstrate impact, leadership, and advocacy in using AI for social good.
Mayank Dhingra, Director and Global Head of Education Business and Strategy at HP, acknowledged the finalists. “Changemakers like Raul John Aju, Ashwat Prasanna, and Vineeta Garg show a promising path for education’s future,” Dhingra stated. He emphasized their efforts ensure education meets the needs of upcoming generations.
HP’s research, including its ‘HP Futures 2025’ report, underscores AI’s potential. The report indicates AI can close learning gaps and deliver equitable education. However, benefits materialize only when AI technologies are deployed ethically and managed effectively.
Global Competition and Announcement
The 15 finalists for the World Education Medals 2025 represent 12 countries. Besides India, finalists come from the United States, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, Switzerland, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Italy, and Greece. This global participation highlights widespread innovation in AI-driven education.
A Global Judging Academy will select the winners for each of the three medals. This academy comprises prominent individuals with expertise in education and technology. Winners will be announced next month. They will receive honors at the Education Leaders Forum in London.