Plumbers will survive AI: Raghuram Rajan as he flags shortcomings in Indian education
The world is on the cusp of a technological revolution, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation set to transform the way we live and work. As machines and algorithms increasingly take over routine and repetitive tasks, there is a growing concern about the impact of AI on employment. However, according to former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Raghuram Rajan, hands-on jobs like that of a plumber may survive the AI wave, while a variety of other jobs go away.
Rajan, who has been a vocal advocate for improving the Indian education system, pointed to the shortcomings in the country’s education framework. He emphasized the need for a good skilling model, which can help equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven world. “We need to find a good skilling model…It’s not rocket science,” he said, highlighting the importance of vocational training and hands-on skills.
The Indian education system has long been criticized for its focus on theoretical knowledge, with little emphasis on practical skills. This has resulted in a large pool of graduates who are not job-ready, lacking the skills and expertise required by the industry. Rajan’s comments underscore the need for a paradigm shift in the way we approach education, with a greater emphasis on vocational training and skill development.
The former RBI Governor also suggested that Indians must understand that not everyone needs a college degree. In a country where there is a strong societal pressure to pursue higher education, this may seem like a radical idea. However, Rajan’s comments are rooted in the reality of the job market, where many skills are acquired through on-the-job training and apprenticeships rather than formal education.
The importance of hands-on skills cannot be overstated. As AI and automation take over routine tasks, the demand for skilled workers who can perform complex tasks that require human judgment and expertise will only increase. Plumbers, electricians, and carpenters are just a few examples of professionals who will continue to be in demand, regardless of the advancements in AI.
Moreover, the Indian government has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting skill development and vocational training. The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), for instance, is a flagship scheme that aims to provide skills training to millions of Indians. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives remains to be seen, and much more needs to be done to address the skills gap in the country.
Rajan’s comments also highlight the need for a more nuanced approach to education, one that recognizes the diverse needs and abilities of students. Rather than pushing every student towards a college degree, we need to create alternative pathways for skill development and vocational training. This could include apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and certification programs that equip students with industry-relevant skills.
In conclusion, Raghuram Rajan’s comments on the survival of plumbers in an AI-driven world are a timely reminder of the need to rethink our approach to education and skill development. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it is essential that we create an education system that is relevant, effective, and responsive to the needs of the industry. By promoting vocational training, hands-on skills, and alternative pathways for skill development, we can ensure that Indians are equipped to thrive in an AI-driven world.
The former RBI Governor’s comments are a wake-up call for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders to come together and create a more skilled and employable workforce. As we move forward, it is essential that we recognize the importance of hands-on skills and create an education system that is geared towards the needs of the 21st century. Only then can we ensure that Indians are prepared to survive and thrive in an AI-driven world.
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