Indian WhatsApp tutors are teaching ordinary people how to use AI (restofworld.org)

Indian educator Keshev Dutt has launched a series of affordable online AI tutorials aimed at small business owners in Bangladesh and Nepal, focusing on practical applications of AI in services like Excel rather than complex coding. For just $30, participants learn to automate inventory logs, generate invoices, and analyze sales patterns using tools like Copilot during 60 to 90-minute sessions on platforms like WhatsApp and Zoom. Since starting his program in March, Dutt has trained around 50 individuals, reflecting a growing grassroots demand for AI literacy among local business owners who seek practical skills to enhance their operations. This initiative highlights a significant trend in the democratization of AI education, particularly in developing regions where formal training options are often prohibitively expensive. Educators like Dutt and his colleague Bisma Wani have tapped into the informal learning economy, making AI more accessible and less intimidating for those who may not aspire to tech careers but wish to improve their digital skills. Experts note that these grassroots tutoring efforts are crucial for fostering AI adoption at a foundational level in economies where even minor efficiency gains can lead to substantial economic benefits. However, this burgeoning sector lacks regulation, which can pose risks regarding the quality of education provided.