Global analytics and AI leader SAS has launched its Academy for Data and AI Excellence in India, aiming to address the country’s growing demand for advanced technology skills. The initiative comes at a time when enterprises across industries are accelerating their adoption of artificial intelligence, machine learning and data-driven decision-making, creating both opportunities and challenges for the workforce.
The academy is designed to provide learners with comprehensive training in data science, analytics and generative AI, equipping them with capabilities needed for the future of work. According to SAS, the program will combine practical industry applications with a strong academic foundation, ensuring that participants not only understand theoretical concepts but can also implement them in real-world scenarios. This dual approach is expected to make graduates of the academy highly employable in an environment where AI skills are increasingly becoming a prerequisite for career advancement.
India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing markets for AI adoption, with enterprises in sectors such as banking, retail, healthcare and manufacturing rapidly integrating AI technologies to enhance efficiency, customer experience and business outcomes. However, reports have consistently highlighted a gap between the demand for AI skills and the availability of trained professionals. SAS’s academy seeks to bridge this divide by offering structured learning opportunities tailored to India’s evolving digital economy.
The academy’s curriculum will cover core areas such as data management, analytics techniques, cloud computing, machine learning models, and the responsible use of AI. In addition, a significant emphasis will be placed on generative AI, reflecting the growing importance of large language models and related tools in business applications. Learners will be exposed to case studies and practical projects drawn from multiple industries, preparing them to solve complex problems with data-driven insights.
SAS has highlighted that the academy will not only focus on entry-level professionals but also on reskilling mid-career employees and senior managers who need to adapt to new technological demands. This inclusive structure ensures that the academy addresses both the creation of new talent and the upgradation of existing skills in the workforce. The company has also stressed its commitment to aligning the academy with India’s broader national skilling initiatives, making it a strategic contributor to the country’s vision of becoming a global AI hub.
The program is set to operate in collaboration with universities, industry partners and government institutions. By creating this networked ecosystem, SAS aims to ensure that the academy stays current with the latest advancements in technology and business practices. Partnerships with universities will help integrate cutting-edge research and academic rigor, while industry collaborations will provide learners with exposure to live business challenges and potential employment opportunities.
One of the distinguishing features of the academy is its focus on building GenAI-ready skills. As organizations increasingly experiment with generative AI for content creation, process automation and customer interaction, the need for employees who can understand, deploy and govern these technologies has become critical. By training participants in both the technical aspects and ethical considerations of generative AI, SAS seeks to cultivate professionals who can innovate responsibly.
The launch of the academy is also seen as a strategic move for SAS itself, as it deepens its presence in India’s education and technology ecosystem. India already serves as a vital market for SAS solutions and a hub for global talent in data science and AI. By investing in local skill development, the company strengthens its brand positioning while also addressing a critical bottleneck in the adoption of its own technologies.
Market analysts view this initiative as timely, noting that India’s digital transformation journey depends heavily on closing the skills gap. With AI projected to contribute significantly to the country’s GDP in the coming years, initiatives like the SAS Academy for Data and AI Excellence could play an instrumental role in ensuring that both individuals and organizations are ready to harness the potential of emerging technologies.
For learners, the academy promises a pathway to secure employment in high-growth sectors and to future-proof their careers against technological disruption. For businesses, it provides a reliable source of talent equipped with advanced analytical and AI skills, thereby accelerating innovation and competitiveness. And for India as a whole, it represents another step toward consolidating its position as a global leader in AI and digital technology.
The official launch has already generated positive responses from stakeholders in academia, industry and government. As the academy begins operations, the coming months will reveal the extent to which it can scale and deliver on its ambitious goals. With AI becoming an integral part of daily business operations and decision-making, the success of such initiatives will likely determine how effectively India can leverage its demographic advantage in the digital era.