Sep 25, 2024
For the Most users to take an online artificial intelligence lesson in 24 hours
Lucknow, 25 September 2024: The SAWiT (South Asian Women in Tech) Learnathon has officially set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the most users to take an online artificial intelligence lesson in 24 hours. Hosted by GUVI (an HCL Group company) in collaboration with the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the event brought together thousands of participants from India and beyond, eager to dive into Generative AI and Python domains. Running from 12 PM on September 21, 2024, to 12 PM on September 22, 2024, the Learnathon attracted a diverse group of learners committed to upskilling in AI. With over 46,000 women participants completing the AI lessons within 24 hours, this event marks a monumental achievement in digital education.
Supported by the Government of Uttar Pradesh as the Partner State, SAWiT has key partnerships with Google, HCLTech, and Sheroes, along with the backing of 319 corporate companies and 438 universities. The initiative aims to upskill 500,000 women across South Asia in Generative AI, aligning with the Uttar Pradesh Government’s mission to make Lucknow a leading hub for AI innovation. This partnership empowers women with advanced tech skills, boosts employability, and supports Uttar Pradesh’s vision of contributing to India’s $1 trillion economy goal by fostering inclusive innovation.
The SAWiT Learnathon continues through September 30, 2024, allowing more women to participate and benefit from free access to learning materials and courses offered by GUVI. Participants can explore AI and Python at their own pace during this extended period.
Shri Anil Kumar Sagar, Principal Secretary of the Department of IT & Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh, added, “SAWiT’s initiative is a testament to our commitment to reducing AI biases by fostering diversity in technology. By equipping women with essential GenAI skills, we are shaping the future of AI while ensuring that the technology is more inclusive and representative. The Government of Uttar Pradesh is proud to support this transformative effort, strengthening our state’s role in technological innovation and STEM education.”
Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson, HCLTech, shared, “With Generative AI becoming a vital tool, it’s essential for educational institutions to embrace it, much like other technological advancements in the past. Generative AI will shape not only learning outcomes but also assessments, and it will play a pivotal role in encouraging more women into STEM fields at an early stage. To support this, we need policy frameworks, and investment in R&D to ensure greater representation of women in tech, both in India and globally. Together, we can create platforms that amplify the role of women in these fields and pave the way for workplace equity and innovation.”
Following the success of the Learnathon, the next phase will feature the SAWiT.AI Hackathon, scheduled for October 2024. Mr. Arun Prakash M, Founder and CEO of GUVI, remarked:
“It’s incredible to witness women embracing AI and leading the way. Achieving this GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the second time, after the ‘AI-for-India’ initiative in 2021 broke the record for Most users to take an online computer programming lesson in 24 hours, continues our legacy of pushing boundaries. This record is more than just a win; it’s about making tech accessible to everyone. The SAWiT Learnathon is just the beginning, and we are excited for what comes next!”
Notes to the editor
About GUVI
GUVI, an HCL Group company, is a vernacular EdTech company delivering world-class learning experience by providing highly-effective & finest learning solutions, breaking the language barrier in tech-learning to more than 2 million learners worldwide.
About SAWiT
The world’s largest, woman-only, Gen AI event empowering women in artificial intelligence through a 24-hour marathon of immersive learning and collaboration. Join us for an inspiring journey dedicated to advancing skills, fostering innovation, and building a supportive community in the world of Generative AI.
About HCL Group
Founded in 1976 as one of India’s original IT garage start-ups, HCL Group is a pioneer of modern computing with many firsts to its credit, including the introduction of the 8-bit microprocessor-based computer in 1978 well before its global peers. Today, the HCL Group has a presence across varied sectors that include technology, healthcare and talent management solutions and comprises three companies – HCL Infosystems, HCLTech and HCL Healthcare. The Group generates annual revenues of over US$13.4 billion with 219,000 employees operating across 60 countries. For further information, visit www.hcl.com.