Technology is developing faster than we are blinking our eyes. From the industrial revolution to the IT revolution, we are now in the age of the AI revolution. Does the study programme you want to pursue match the AI revolution? 

Workplaces in future may look much different to what it is now and the learning environment needs to adapt accordingly. In the present time, digital usage is increasing and intangible assets are dominating the market. With the increase of generative AI, certain jobs may become part of history books, and low-wage jobs are at maximum risk. 

The education system of the past is stalling this growth as it cannot connect and match the pace and demands created by technological development. Futurists call for the need for learning while you are working which is considered more effective and known to bridge the skill gap. This shift in learning and working is not easy to implement and requires some serious efforts from policymakers, businesses, and educators.

We are discussing this topic here because this changing scenario will cast its shadow on the immigration sector as well, particularly those who want to pursue education overseas. At the juncture of selecting a programme to pursue while applying for a study visa, it is important to consider what is happening around the world. Your programme should match the jobs that will be there for the next ten or more years. This should not just be your approach as an aspiring overseas student, but this is what is expected from you by reputed universities in developed nations.

The Shape and Functioning of Future Job Market

Even though academic knowledge will have its place, employers in future will want graduates to have practical skills as well. This means understanding theories will not be enough to stay employable. Those planning to apply for a study visa should pick up programmes that offer internships and research opportunities that can provide hands-on experience. As an international student, you should give more importance to developing skills like problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Students who are preparing to study overseas should take up apprenticeship programmes that provide good practical work experience along with theoretical learning. During your study tenure look for opportunities that can provide you with international work experience. Spot programmes that emphasise project-based learning and research, as these programmes can easily lead to valuable practical experience. If you want to study abroad, talk to overseas education consultants in Chandigarh before starting your paperwork.

Thoughts on Potential Considerations and Challenges

Staying current with the latest developments around you is essential, and this requirement can be fulfilled by building relationships and networks. As the world is shifting towards a knowledge-based economy, learning will never stop throughout our lives. While you work towards gaining practical experience, it is important to build a network so that you can keep your process of learning on and know what is current and what needs to be changed.

Till now, education has been considered as a journey and work as the destination. We are sure the majority of the students preparing to study overseas will view their study visa journey as the same. However, this will not be the case in future, for there will be a requirement to learn while we are working so much so that companies and employers in future may collaborate and incorporate work-based learning programmes.

Another aspect that is worth mentioning here is the ethical considerations as we are adopting AI in our work culture. The rise of automation will give birth to many ethical questions, raising issues of social inequality and job displacement. As an international student preparing for future jobs, you should be sensitive to such issues and be able to adapt accordingly.

The Takeaway

We are not working the way our grandparents used to work and our grandchildren will not work the way we are working. Change is the rule of nature, overseas study programmes that attracted big dollars in the past will be obsolete. As an aspiring international student, you should be aware of the changing trends, its overall impact and how you need to adapt.