Rocket Learning announced the launch of Appu, an AI-driven tutor designed to offer conversational and personalized learning for children aged 3–6 across India. This initiative focuses on addressing the critical need for early childhood education.
Appu AI-powered multilingual tutor
Appu supports a multilingual learning experience, starting with Hindi and expanding to 20 other regional languages, including Marathi and Punjabi. Rocket Learning emphasized that the platform is accessible freely on all screens, ensuring widespread reach. It offers:
Targeting Preschool Education Gaps
Rocket Learning highlighted that more than 40 million children in India lack access to quality preschool education. Additionally, many second-grade students face challenges in basic literacy and numeracy. To address these issues, Appu focuses on school readiness skills such as pre-literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional learning like greetings and introductions.
Leveraging Advanced AI
Appu uses advanced Large Language Models (LLMs) for complex reasoning tasks, ensuring speed and efficiency in learning. Thousands of children are currently piloting the tool, and the platform is expected to reach 50 million families, including Anganwadi centers and preschools nationwide, by 2030.
Backed by Google.org
Rocket Learning noted that the platform was developed in just six months with the support of a $1.5 million grant awarded in 2023 as part of the AI for Global Goals Impact Challenge. Google.org Fellows provided pro bono technical expertise, which significantly aided in building Appu.
Economic Impact
Rocket Learning added that Appu and other educational initiatives are projected to generate $4 billion in lifetime value for India’s economy by benefiting their current cohort of 3 million children. The funding also supported the development of an AI-powered grading system for 50,000 daily homework assignments.
A Collaborative Endeavor
Rocket Learning highlighted the collaborative effort with Google.org through a six-month Google Fellowship program, where Google employees worked pro bono to contribute to the platform’s development.
The unveiling of Appu took place at The Ashok, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, and saw attendance from dignitaries, government stakeholders, education experts, and entrepreneurs.
Speaking about Appu, Vishal Sunil, Co-Founder and CTO of Rocket Learning, says,
Appu is the future of learning—AI-driven, intuitive, and designed to evolve. Adaptability is our greatest strength, and personalization is the key to unlocking every child’s potential. With 85% of brain development occurring by age six, early childhood education is the next frontier in human capital. Appu aims to elevate India’s IQ, maximize its demographic dividend, and bridge the AI divide, ensuring equitable access to quality learning.
Commenting on the initiative, Annie Lewin, Senior Director at Google.org, said:
At Google.org, we are committed to harnessing AI’s potential to drive systemic impact, and early education is a key area of focus. We deeply value Rocket Learning’s dedication to this mission and are proud to support Appu, an AI-powered tutor developed in just six months through close collaboration with our Google.org Fellows. We look forward to seeing how this innovation transforms learning as Rocket Learning expands its reach to 20 additional languages.