IDSS partners with Masai for Machine Learning in India

IDSS will expand global IDSSx offerings through an exciting new partnership with Masai, an outcome-driven career school with a mission to train India’s untapped talent for some of the most in-demand jobs in the world.

In partnership with IDSS, Masai will offer a seven-month certification program titled ‘Machine Learning with Python: From Linear Models to Deep Learning.’ The program is intended for learners who want to enter the fields of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. It introduces participants to the foundations of ML through hands-on projects, simulations, and real-world case studies. 

Participants take the online Machine Learning course that serves as part of the larger IDSS-created MicroMasters in Statistics and Data Science. Learners in the program will have support from a Teaching Assistant (TAs) who are MIT IDSS graduate students.

The coursework spans data handling, model development, optimization techniques, neural networks, and ML deployment. Participants graduate with a strong portfolio of applied work and a clear understanding of the end-to-end lifecycle of AI systems, positioning them for roles that require both technical rigor and problem-solving depth.

IDSS director and MIT Political Science professor Fotini Christia noted the growing demand for professionals who can work confidently with Machine Learning systems. “ML continues to transform industries, and the need for practitioners who understand both the fundamentals and real-world application is stronger than ever,” said Christia. “This collaboration with Masai gives learners an opportunity to build that depth through a structured, hands-on program that reflects the realities of modern AI development.”

Prateek Shukla, co-founder and CEO of Masai, said the partnership reflects Masai’s focus on building talent that can contribute to the next phase of India’s digital growth. “India is entering a decade in which AI skills will influence every sector. Our collaborations allow learners to access global expertise and build the capability needed to lead AI-driven initiatives. These programs are structured to help professionals understand how AI works and how it can be applied responsibly in real business environments.”