EdTech stories of the month: AI classroom rollouts, major acquisitions, and global training initiatives
AI-powered teaching tools, higher education restructuring, large-scale workforce programs, and international partnerships led this month’s biggest shifts across the EdTech sector.
November delivered a mix of classroom innovation, government investment, and major strategic moves across global education. From imagi, Lovable, and OpenAI teaming up to launch AI coding lessons for students, to Google DeepMind expanding its push into mathematical research, the AI momentum remained strong. Coursera advanced its skills-first agenda with new learning tools, the ETIH Awards introduced a campus retail category, and ASU launched a statewide upskilling program for public employees.
Further up the list, OpenAI for Science published new GPT-5 research findings, Ellucian confirmed a major acquisition, Anthropic partnered with Rwanda and ALX on continent-wide AI training, and the US Department of Education set out a $167 million plan to reshape higher education. It was a month defined by scale, ambition, and the steady blending of AI, policy, and workforce development across education.
10. Imagi and Lovable team up with OpenAI on free AI coding lessons
In at number ten, imagi, Lovable, and OpenAI kick off the month with a new partnership bringing classroom-ready AI coding lessons to schools worldwide. Teachers can now access Lovable’s tools directly through imagi Edu, powered by $1 million in OpenAI credits for Computer Science Education Week. With “vibe coding” lessons and privacy-first design, the collaboration signals a growing push to make AI and coding more accessible for learners everywhere.
9. Google DeepMind launches AI for Math Initiative with global research partners
Taking the ninth spot, Google DeepMind expands its AI research footprint with a new initiative aimed at tackling complex mathematical problems. Working with institutions including Imperial College London, IHES, IAS, the Simons Institute, and Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, the project blends human mathematical insight with AI systems like Gemini Deep Think. It’s a bid to advance long-term research and open new pathways in scientific discovery.
8. Coursera rolls out new AI tools for skills-first learning
At number eight, Coursera expands its AI offering with fresh tools aimed at workforce development and campus programs. Anthony Salcito spotlighted new features including Role Play, Program Builder, and enhanced Course Builder functions. With demand for job-aligned digital skills rising, Coursera is positioning AI to help organizations create tailored learning pathways and support learners through simulation, feedback, and personalized guidance.
7. ETIH Awards introduce new category for campus retail innovation
AI is back again at number seven, this time through the ETIH Awards. A new Campus Retail Innovation category recognizes technology shaping on-campus shopping, from contactless payments to autonomous delivery. With students expecting seamless experiences across digital and physical spaces, the new category reflects how quickly retail technology is becoming part of student life.
6. Arizona partners with ASU to launch statewide upskilling program
Rounding out the first half, Arizona and ASU launch a free upskilling program offering courses and certificates to public-sector employees. Demand filled the first cohort within two weeks, with more than 600 learners enrolled. Courses span business skills, data analytics, and leadership development, backed by credentialing and professional pathways. It’s a clear sign of rising interest in accessible, career-aligned learning for government workers.
5. OpenAI for Science shares early GPT-5 research breakthroughs
Kicking off the top five, OpenAI for Science released new findings showing how GPT-5 is already supporting research across mathematics, biology, physics, and computer science. The team highlighted 13 early case studies, including new mathematical proofs and mechanisms identified in biological data. Kevin Weil calls the model “an incredible brainstorm partner,” pointing to faster reasoning and deeper literature connections.
4. Ellucian acquires Anthology’s SIS and ERP units following bankruptcy
In at number four, Ellucian has agreed to acquire Anthology’s Student Information Services and ERP businesses after Anthology filed for Chapter 11. The move consolidates two major players in higher-ed software as institutions push for more stable, scalable student-data systems. Ellucian CEO Laura Ipsen says the acquisition will “extend our vision to unlock learning for all,” while Anthology frames it as part of a broader restructuring.
3. Anthropic, Rwanda, and ALX expand Chidi AI learning companion across Africa
Taking the third spot, Anthropic is partnering with Rwanda and ALX to roll out Chidi, its Claude-powered learning companion, to teachers, students, and young professionals across the continent. The initiative includes teacher training, civil-service upskilling, and integration with ALX programs for 200,000 learners. Early users describe Chidi as a “Socratic mentor,” with the rollout tied directly to Rwanda’s Vision 2050 workforce strategy.
2. US Education Department sets $167m AI and workforce agenda for 2025
At number two, the US Department of Education has outlined seven new funding priorities under FIPSE, directing $167 million toward AI development, accreditation reform, and short-term workforce programs. The plan includes $50 million for AI adoption in teaching and student support, plus new incentives for institutions switching accreditors. It marks one of the department’s most significant AI-aligned funding rounds to date.
1. Harvey partners with four UK law schools on AI-driven legal education
And taking the top spot for November, Harvey has formed its first UK education partnerships with Oxford, King’s College London, The University of Law, and BPP University Law School. The collaborations focus on AI literacy, legal research, and ethics, with faculty and students using Harvey’s tools across workshops and training programmes. John Armour at Oxford says the partnerships allow academics to explore AI’s role “in research and pedagogy” as the sector modernises.
