This year marks the 20th anniversary of one of the tech world’s most quietly revolutionary education initiatives - Zoho Schools of Learning. What began in 2005 as a small experiment with just six students and two teachers has blossomed into a nationwide model of accessible, skills-based education, now expanding into two additional campuses in Tharuvai and Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.

At a time when the global technology sector is grappling with a pronounced shortage of qualified professionals — with reports suggesting that over 60% of companies struggle to fill roles due to a lack of relevant skills — Zoho has pioneered a sustainable solution. Instead of waiting for change in traditional education, it built its own.

Zoho Schools offers a tuition-free, two-year program designed for high school graduates, blending classroom learning with a year-long paid internship. With no financial burden and a clear path to employment, the program has attracted over 20,000 applicants annually and now counts more than 2,000 graduates - many of whom make up over 10% of Zoho’s current workforce.

This success is not just about skill development. It's a strong example of how business can be a force for good. While Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu prefers not to frame it as corporate social responsibility, it’s hard to ignore the societal impact. The initiative gives young people - many from underprivileged or rural backgrounds - a chance to thrive without the barriers of tuition fees or entrance exams.

The program has grown beyond its original tech focus. Today, Zoho Schools includes the Schools of Business, Design, Graduate Studies, and Advanced Study, with specialised tracks tailored to the evolving demands of the digital economy. The curriculum constantly evolves to include modern programming languages, open-source tools, and user experience design - ensuring graduates are truly job-ready.

Inclusivity is another standout feature. Through its Marupadi program, Zoho is also retraining women who are returning to work after career breaks, with many successfully placed into roles at Zoho.

According to Rajendran Dandapani, Director of Technology at Zoho and President of Zoho Schools of Learning, the program’s success comes down to practical training, peer learning, and a flipped-classroom approach. There are no exams, just real-world application and now, even mentorship from ZSL alumni.

As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, Zoho is adapting again — teaching students not only how to use technology, but how to think critically and ask the right questions in an AI-driven world.

Ultimately, Zoho Schools of Learning is more than an education program. It’s a blueprint for bridging the skills gap while building a more inclusive future - one student, one town, one opportunity at a time.