Mayank Kumar, the co-founder and managing director of upGrad, the edtech unicorn backed by Ronnie Screwvala, on October 3 announced that he is stepping down from his role as the chairperson of the India Edtech Consortium (IEC).

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The IEC is a self-regulatory body established in January 2022 year to address consumer complaints within the edtech sector.

Kumar, who has been leading the IEC since 2022 alongside Divya Gokulnath, co-founder of Byju’s, has informed the consortium members of his decision to resign.

"The past year-and-a-half with IEC has been truly rewarding, but I've made a deliberate choice to prioritise my responsibilities at upGrad and move forward. upGrad is currently in a critical growth phase, requiring my full focus, attention, and time. Therefore, this decision feels appropriate and will enable another capable individual to step up and lead the consortium effectively. ​I have had the opportunity to work alongside an incredible team and senior members of the Board and witness the growth and impact of our collective efforts," Kumar said in a statement

Additionally, Moneycontrol reported that Prateek Maheshwari, co-founder of PhysicsWallah, a venture associated with Alakh Pandey, will succeed Kumar as the chairperson of the IEC.

Kumar's departure from the IEC comes nearly two years after its establishment in January 2022. The consortium comprises representatives from a vast majority of India's edtech companies and operates under the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI). The IEC claims to represent 95 of the Indian learner community.

The IEC and its Independent Grievance Review Board (IGRB) were involved in resolving a few complaints last year, including one filed by learners of Great Learning, which is owned by Byju’s. However, the IGRB ultimately dismissed the case.

The IEC and the IGRB have issued a code of conduct for advertising and marketing that edtech companies are expected to adhere to.