China’s New Graduates, Facing a Dire Job Market, Must Also Contend With A.I.
A record 12.7 million young people are looking for jobs as the country embraces artificial intelligence — and as the technology begins to upend the work force.
TL;DR
- Jin Shangyu, a master's student in urban planning, is concerned about artificial intelligence disrupting the job market for new graduates.
- Job listings increasingly require AI expertise, while traditional roles appear to be declining.
- AI can perform early-stage design tasks that previously required multiple people.
- Ms. Jin has applied for about 150 internships and entry-level jobs without success, even after taking an AI course.
- She believes new graduates are particularly vulnerable to being replaced by AI.
- China is facing a record 12.7 million new graduates entering the workforce this year.
- These graduates face an oversaturated job market, a sluggish economy, and shrinking entry-level positions.
- AI introduces a new obstacle, restructuring industries and changing recruiter priorities.
- The concern is acute in China due to its rapid AI adoption, government support, and high youth unemployment.
- College graduates globally are grappling with the potential disappearance of entry-level jobs due to AI.