AI Skills Become Essential for Workers and Students Worldwide

Rather than worrying about being displaced by artificial intelligence (AI), Thai workers and students should concentrate on developing competencies for new career prospects in fields such as AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, said technology leaders.

Technology leaders advise students to sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities and adopt continuous education, since these factors are crucial benchmarks for tech companies when recruiting new talent.

LABOUR SHORTAGE

David Li, who leads Huawei Technologies in Thailand, stated that AI is transforming various global sectors, and this includes the digital industry in Thailand as well.

"AI not only streamlines mundane activities but also generates fresh avenues for sophisticated positions demanding exceptional creativity, critical analysis, and specialized skills," he stated.

A collaborative study conducted by Huawei along with the Ministries of Digital Economy and Society and Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation has revealed that the nation will face a significant shortfall of around 500,000 digital experts by 2030. This scarcity is notably pronounced in areas like artificial intelligence development, cloud infrastructure, and smart systems engineering.

In 2023, Huawei Thailand initiated a "20,000 Developers" program spanning three years with the aim of nurturing future trailblazers.

For example, Huawei joined hands with Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Engineering to introduce a "Cloud Essentials" program starting this year. This initiative aims to provide students with the necessary skills for managing hybrid clouds and developing AI-optimized solutions—abilities required to coexist effectively with artificial intelligence rather than competing against it.

Mr. Li stated that AI reshapes jobs instead of eliminating them. For instance, positions such as AI trainers and ethical AI auditors highlight the necessity for human-AI cooperation.

He stated that students should focus on developing AI-enhanced abilities that machines can't readily duplicate, including expertise in hybrid cloud environments and artificial intelligence for IT operations.

CRITICAL THINKING

Vasupon Thankakan, the chief operating officer at Microsoft Thailand, emphasized that students should concentrate on becoming proficient in AI technologies, developing strong analytical abilities, and striving for expertise in their selected areas of study.

He further noted that critical thinking abilities would allow individuals to assess circumstances, reach well-informed choices, and tackle intricate issues, tasks that artificial intelligence can’t duplicate.

He emphasized that students ought to develop robust interpersonal and communication abilities, encompassing aspects like teamwork, empathy, and negotiation. Such human-focused competencies are irreplaceable by artificial intelligence and are crucial for successful cooperation and leadership in professional settings.

Mr. Vasupon stated that by focusing on these sectors, students can improve their job prospects and secure their futures amid the advancement of artificial intelligence.

Microsoft seeks applicants who combine crucial abilities, pertinent experience, and individual traits that match its core values and workplace environment, he noted.

The main requirements encompass problem-solving skills, which are showcased via critical analysis.

Prae Dumrongmongcolgul, who leads Facebook’s operations in Thailand, stated instead of worrying about being replaced by AI, students should concentrate on enhancing abilities that work alongside artificial intelligence functionalities.

Although no specific sector ensures job security, maintaining curiosity and dedication to continuous education is crucial for keeping up with the fast-changing AI environment, she noted.

Medical students, for example, can investigate AI-driven diagnostic technologies and incorporate these into their education, thereby boosting their proficiency in making precise diagnoses and improving treatment results.

It is equally important for students to develop critical thinking skills and effective communication skills to drive meaningful change in their chosen industries, she added.

Maneerut Anulomsombut, CEO of Sea (Thailand), emphasized that upskilling and reskilling are crucial for workers in today's job market.

"AI tools are set for widespread adoption. Expertise in these tools, along with robust interpersonal abilities and a dedication to continuous education, forms a much-desired profile for organizations managing swift transformations," according to Ms. Maneerut.

Based on the World Economic Forum’s "Future of Jobs Report 2025," Thai businesses will prioritize hiring individuals who possess expertise in areas like artificial intelligence, large-scale data analysis, and cyber protection. In addition to these technical competencies, they will seek candidates with strong interpersonal abilities including analytical reasoning, innovative thought processes, management capabilities, and effective communication skills.

HIGHER WAGES

Vilaiporn Taweelappontong, who leads financial services consulting for the Asia-Pacific region and serves as the consulting lead partner at PwC, noted that over the last eighteen months, there has been a change in required skill sets.

Mature technology abilities require enhancement, whereas emerging competencies are highly sought after, specifically in areas like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data analysis, data governance, data engineering, and data security. There is reduced emphasis on traditional coding as low-code and no-code platforms become more prevalent.

Companies allocate 80% of their AI initiatives towards boosting efficiency and dedicate the remaining 20% to fostering innovations.

A number of companies have set up AI facilities or centers of expertise to oversee artificial intelligence initiatives, necessitating interdisciplinary competencies in handling AI applications, user interaction, design, systems engineering, AI governance, policies, and equity assessments.

Ms Vilaiporn noted that we have observed a decrease in hiring for jobs involving repetitive tasks such as summarizing data, marketing, public relations, investor relations, and handling call centers because of automation.

Furthermore, current positions with these responsibilities come with an average salary increase of as much as 25%, underscoring the importance of these abilities for businesses.

Sectors like financial services, professional services, and information and communication have a higher demand for AI skills and AI-related jobs compared to other sectors.

TALENT OPTIMISATION

Pochara Arayakarnkul, chief executive of Bluebik Group, said the demand for tech talent remains high as businesses accelerate digital transformation.

He mentioned that over time, the requirement for professionals in software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analytics will keep increasing.

"Job cuts within Thailand’s technology industry are uncommon since the demand for qualified tech experts exceeds their availability. Nonetheless, firms are moving toward a more performance-oriented environment, resulting in an increased departure of underperforming employees," stated Mr. Pochara.

Instead of resorting to layoffs, businesses are concentrating on optimizing their workforce to ensure they possess the necessary skills for driving digital transformation, as he mentioned.

Mr. Pochara mentioned that AI is increasing the demand for positions like AI engineers and data scientists to create and deploy AI solutions.

Rather than dreading artificial intelligence, students ought to see it as an instrument that, when employed correctly, can enhance their skills and boost their career prospects, he noted.

At Bluebik, we expect ongoing expansion in technology sectors, notably within software engineering, AI engineering, data analytics, data management, and cybersecurity.

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).