By Jeff Maggioncalda, CEO, Coursera
Early in the pandemic, online learning shaped the response to a global crisis that changed the way we learn. More than a year later, new trends show that the combined force of online learning and remote work is creating a powerful opportunity to provide not just skills but more equitable job opportunities worldwide. To that end, I’m excited to present the second annual Coursera Impact Report.
With the double disruption of the pandemic and automation intensifying the unemployment crisis, people everywhere need to develop new skills for a digital future. Over 20 million new learners have come to Coursera in the past year to access world-class learning. The highest growth came from regions where higher education infrastructure is severely constrained in its capacity to meet the demand of a growing population. Growing collaboration between universities, industry, and governments to address the skills shortage through online learning is shaping a new and inclusive lifelong learning model.
Coursera is honored to be a platform that individuals and institutions around the world trust to learn the skills required to navigate change and disruption. This year, Coursera earned B Corp™ certification for meeting rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. We also converted to a Public Benefit Corporation. The transition underscores our deep commitment to making a positive impact on society.
As the 2021 Impact Report affirms, offering flexible pathways to skills and credentials that prepare people for remote and digital jobs can pave the way for talent to rise from anywhere in the world. Together with our partners, we’re excited to continue our efforts to fulfill this promise in our quest to build a more just world.