Staff Reporter : Kolkata, 29th. December, 2024: In a transformative era defined by Artificial Intelligence (AI), the city of Kolkata emerges as a beacon of innovation and adaptability in reshaping the landscape of education, skills, and employment. The educational seminar on the Future of Education, Skills and Employment Post AI Era at the Westin Hotel organised by EME Academy discusses how the convergence of cutting-edge technologies and traditional academic excellence propels Kolkata into a promising future, where the workforce is not just prepared for change but thrives in it.
As we navigate through the dynamic landscape of the post-AI era, recent studies reveal that 74% of people have agreed that AI resolves their queries quicker. In such an era, Kolkata stands as a testament to its commitment to preparing its people for the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. The city has witnessed a surge in demand for AI-related skills, with academic institutions taking proactive measures to equip students with the necessary tools.
In this thought-provoking seminar, Shri Tapas Chatterjee, MLA, Rajarhat Newtown, provided insights into the evolving landscape of education, shedding light on the crucial interplay between emerging skills and the job market. “Drawing from current trends and technological advancements, the importance of adaptability and continuous learning for students and professionals alike and aiming to equip them with the tools necessary to thrive in the dynamic future of work is a absolute necessity in today’s time” emphasized Mr Chatterjee
At the seminar, Professor Dhrubajyoti Chattopadhyay, Vice-Chancellor of Sister Nivedita University, emphasizes on the shift from content to competencies, personalized learning and lifelong learning. “Embracing the post-AI era requires a fundamental shift in our approach to education. It’s not just about consuming content; it’s about cultivating competencies. Personalized learning becomes our compass, guiding students to discover and hone their unique strengths. In this era of perpetual evolution, education must transcend the classroom, becoming a lifelong journey of curiosity and adaptation. We stand at the forefront of a revolution—from content to competencies, from structured courses to personalized pathways, and from finite learning to the infinite possibilities of lifelong learning.” notes Professor Chattopadhyay
While Professor Sujoy Biswas, Director and CEO, Techno India Group focused on the demand of the human centric skills, hybrid skills, focus on creativity and innovation amongst today’s youth. “In the post-AI era, the demand for skills is not just about algorithms and automation; it’s about nurturing our human essence. Human-centric skills, those uniquely human traits—empathy, creativity, and innovation—are the true currency of the future. As we navigate this landscape, the fusion of technical expertise with the artistry of creativity becomes paramount. We stand at the crossroads of a new educational paradigm, emphasizing hybrid skills that bridge the digital and human realms. In this era, success is not just about adapting; it’s about leading with creativity, innovating with purpose, and cultivating a generation prepared to shape the future” says Professor Biswas
Echoing the same emotion, Shri Debasish Sen, retired IAS, Managing Director, WBHIDCO Ltd, Govt of West Bengal said “In the wake of automation’s rise, we confront the realities of job displacement. However, let us not view this as a challenge insurmountable, but rather as an opportunity to redefine the nature of work. The gig economy emerges as a dynamic force, offering a paradigm shift towards flexible work structures.
Humayun Kabir, IPS (Retd), Former Minister (Technical Education, Training and Skill Development) also stated that in this post-AI era, people should not solely focus on job security but on equipping their workforce with the adaptability to thrive in a landscape where flexibility is paramount and to embrace the gig economy as a canvas for innovation and entrepreneurship, where individuals will be able to craft their own professional narratives in the ever-evolving workspace.
Further discussing on the topic, Professor Saikat Maitra, Former VC, MAKAUT, West Bengal, highlighted the imperative for institutions to foster creativity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration, emphasizing the essential role of education in preparing individuals for a workforce shaped by artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.
Key Focus Areas for Future Education in the AI Era:
• AI-Integrated Curricula: Educational institutions in Kolkata are integrating AI concepts into their curricula, ensuring students are well-versed in the applications and implications of AI across various disciplines.
• Interdisciplinary Learning: Recognizing the cross-cutting nature of AI, Kolkata’s academic institutions are promoting interdisciplinary learning, fostering collaboration between students from diverse backgrounds.
• Ethics and Responsible AI: As AI technologies advance, Kolkata prioritizes the teaching of ethical considerations and responsible AI practices, ensuring that graduates are equipped to navigate the ethical challenges associated with AI.
• Continuous Learning Initiatives: Kolkata is actively promoting a culture of continuous learning, encouraging professionals to upskill and reskill throughout their careers to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving job market.
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