AI Set to Transform Many Professions, Students Must Prepare New Skills

The development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to transform many professions and ways of working in the next few years. This situation requires students to prepare skills that relate not only to technical expertise but also to human capabilities such as moral consideration, adaptation, and relationship building.

The issue of changes in the working world was one of the key topics discussed during the closing of the UPH Festival 2026 at Pelita Harapan University (UPH) on 15 August 2026. In addition to academic and technical abilities, new students are being directed to develop their capacity for adaptation and decision-making amidst the progress of AI.

Senior Advisor of the Pelita Harapan Education Foundation, Niel Nielson, stated that AI will affect many professions. However, the technology cannot replace all human qualities in decision-making and living life.

“AI is an excellent servant, but never let it become the master of your life,” he remarked.

This message was delivered during the session titled “AI Will Change Everything. Will It Change You?”. Niel reminded students that abilities such as compassion, moral consideration, and sacrifice remain essential aspects that need to be developed as technology becomes more widely used.

In addition to the ability to face technological developments, students also need to have an understanding of their life’s purpose and direction.

Andry M. Panjaitan, Associate Vice President of Student Development, Alumni, and Corporate Relations at UPH, stated that the university experience can serve as a space to recognise one’s life calling while developing potential. “Never be afraid to dream big on this campus,” Andry advised.

According to Andry, students should not use achievements as the sole measure of self-worth. The experience of facing challenges, building communities, developing leadership, and honing talents are all integral parts of that process.

With the increasing use of AI, the demands of the professional world for university graduates are also likely to change. Therefore, higher education is required not only to equip students with competencies specific to their fields but also with the ability to adapt, make decisions, and use technology responsibly.