From hairstyling to coding and creative entrepreneurship, these platforms are redefining what it means to be “career-ready” in India. India’s youth are no longer looking at traditional degrees as their only gateway to success. Today’s generation is driven by skills over scores, and a wide range of new-age platforms are meeting them where they are — online, mobile-first, and focused on practical, job-ready training. Here are five standout platforms making skilling accessible and aspirational:
1. Masai School – Tech Careers Without Upfront Fees
Domain: Technology & Data
Masai School offers coding, data analytics, and UI/UX design bootcamps under a unique “pay after placement” model. Their outcome-driven curriculum is ideal for college dropouts, freshers, and career switchers looking to enter the IT industry without the burden of student loans. Real-world projects and mentorship are baked into every course.
Explore: masaischool.com
2. Esskay Hairstyling School – Blending Global Techniques with Digital Access
Domain: Beauty & Wellness
Esskay Hairstyling School (from the house of Esskay Beauty) is redefining beauty education in India by combining international expertise with homegrown accessibility. Students are trained in hairstyling, skincare, makeup, and salon management via AI-powered tutorials, global brand-led masterclasses, and digital product education. The platform especially empowers youth from Tier II and III cities with easy access to professional grooming careers.
Explore: esskayacademy.com/ehs
ALSO READ: Autism & Society: How Misconceptions Hurt More Than the Condition
3. Hunar Online – Creative & Entrepreneurial Skilling for Women
Domain: Fashion, Baking, Lifestyle & Entrepreneurship
Hunar Online is dedicated to skilling women across India in areas like fashion design, baking, beauty, jewellery making, and more. With courses available in multiple languages and a focus on turning passion into business, Hunar enables learners to earn, freelance, or start their own venture—all from the comfort of home.
Explore: hunaronlinecourses.com
4. Clever Harvey – Real-World Business Skills for Teens
Domain: Business & Strategy (Teen-Focused)
Aimed at students aged 13–18, Clever Harvey offers Junior MBA programs in fields like digital marketing, data analytics, design thinking, and entrepreneurship. Developed in collaboration with companies like PUMA and Domino’s, the platform prepares high schoolers for internships, Ivy League college apps, and startup thinking.
Explore: cleverharvey.com
5. NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation) – Vocational Training at Scale
Domain: Core Sectors – Automotive, Healthcare, Electronics, Construction & More
NSDC partners with industry bodies and private institutions to deliver hands-on training across 36+ sectors—from welding and automotive repair to healthcare and hospitality. Through the Skill India mission, it offers certifications and job-linked training to millions, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Explore: nsdcindia.org
Platforms like EasyShiksha.com offer valuable courses that can help you gain the necessary skills.
