Fermi, a new AI-first edtech start-up co-founded by entrepreneur Mukesh Bansal and technology executive Peeyush Ranjan, has launched a learning platform that emphasizes conceptual understanding over answer generation. Targeting high-school students in India and the United States, the company aims to use AI to strengthen fundamentals in core STEM subjects.
A fresh vision for AI in education
Fermi’s founders say many existing AI tools encourage quick answers, which can undermine deep learning—particularly in mathematics, physics and chemistry. The platform instead promotes a “guided struggle” model: AI acts as a tutor that nudges students through problem-solving steps, explains underlying logic and prompts reflection rather than providing outright solutions.
This approach is intended to build durable problem-solving skills and long-term retention, addressing concerns about superficial learning as students increasingly access generative tools during study.
Design and classroom integration
The platform replicates a pen-and-paper experience with a handwriting-friendly smart canvas. As students work through problems, the AI analyses each step in real time and offers hints, prompts and corrective feedback, keeping the exercise interactive and process-focused.
Fermi also includes diagnostic tools for teachers. By analysing students’ solution paths and error patterns, the system highlights conceptual gaps and learning trajectories, enabling targeted interventions and more efficient lesson planning.
Curriculum alignment and pilot results
Content is aligned with prominent Indian and international academic frameworks to ease adoption across different education systems. Ahead of public rollout, a pilot involving thousands of concept-based assessments showed measurable improvement among students who initially struggled, suggesting gains in conceptual clarity and problem-solving ability.
The product is currently available free while the team refines features and scales the offering. Monetisation plans are expected to follow once the platform stabilises and the user base grows.
Expansion and future subjects
Beyond its initial focus on maths, physics and chemistry, Fermi plans to add biology—targeting students preparing for medical entrance exams—and later expand into higher-order and professional domains such as engineering fundamentals, data science and accounting.
Context and timing
Fermi’s launch comes as the edtech sector recalibrates its use of AI amid worries about over-reliance on automated answers. By prioritising reasoning and mastery, the start-up positions itself as an alternative that seeks responsible integration of AI into classrooms and self-study environments.
With experienced founders and a clear pedagogical focus, Fermi aims to contribute to a shift in how artificial intelligence is deployed in education—moving from shortcut-driven assistance to tools that reinforce conceptual learning and teacher-led support.
