On World Youth Skills Day, The Park Hotel in Kolkata came alive with discussions about the future of work as FICCI hosted its 4th annual “Empowering through Skills: Shaping the Future of Work in the Era of Emerging Technologies”. The event, a vital platform for dialogue, centered on the urgent need to equip young people with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world. Among the notable attendees was Prof. Manoshi Roychowdhury, contributing to the impactful conversations.
The discussions were significantly enriched by Mr. Ashida Katsunori, Deputy Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, who offered a global perspective on international collaboration in skill development. His insights amplified the collective effort required to navigate the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
A particularly compelling segment of the day was a panel session, expertly moderated by Dr. Raj Mruthyunjayappa. The panel, featuring distinguished voices like Mr. Tamojoy Sengupta of BT Group and other prominent leaders, tackled a crucial question: how can we best prepare our youth with the knowledge and tools of Artificial Intelligence?
The consensus from the panel was resounding and clear: AI is no longer an optional skill; it’s becoming absolutely essential. However, the message wasn’t just about adoption; it was about mindful integration. The experts emphasized that embracing AI requires a balanced and empathetic approach. We must not only learn AI but also thoughtfully adapt and integrate it across our education systems and professional environments. The core principle must be to ensure that technology serves to empower individuals rather than replace them, keeping human values firmly at the heart of all innovation.
This year’s FICCI initiative served as a powerful reminder of the proactive steps needed to prepare for the technological shifts ahead. By prioritizing skill development in areas like AI and maintaining a human-centric perspective, we can ensure that the next generation is well-prepared to seize the opportunities of tomorrow’s world.