'The surge of AI will render degrees useless; millions of jobs may disappear'! Such information has been widely circulating in recent times. There is a strong possibility that these may become reality. To safeguard ourselves from such a situation, it is essential to change our outlook on degrees and employment.

We cannot become a 'master' in a field merely by acquiring a degree. Job opportunities will depend on how much effort we invest during graduation. As AI is now applied in almost all sectors, repetitive job opportunities will inevitably transform.

However, within the rapidly developing 'Skilled AI Ecosystem', abilities beyond AI technology can only be achieved through human resources. Building such skills will widen opportunities. Therefore, it is crucial for today's youth to cultivate skills beyond AI and establish clear goals.

As AI has placed people with long years of experience and those holding degrees in different fields on an equal platform, opportunities have widened for those from arts or science-related studies. Logical reasoning, data structure algorithms, system design, generative AI, or agentic AI remain essential.

After the rise of IT and AI, there has been a shift in the way we perceive ourselves, mutual respect among people, and communication abilities. In such an environment, we must first prioritize physical and mental health and nurture effective communication skills.

Technological and economic progress occurred in Western countries nearly 50 years ago. At a time when our nation is also witnessing such growth, it is natural for youngsters to become self-reliant. While more than a thousand IT-based 'unicorns' had emerged globally many years earlier, it is remarkable that more than a hundred 'unicorns' have emerged from India during the last decade.

Challenges form the foundation for our improvement. Therefore, let us not fear the challenges that exist today, but embrace today's journey with happiness and move ahead!

— Nalin Vimalkumar, Technical Director, SNS Educational Group, Coimbatore.