The world is rapidly moving towards Artificial Intelligence and automation. In this context, a new report has given a serious warning for the future.
According to a study conducted by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), around 3 million low-skilled jobs are likely to be lost in the UK by 2035. This problem is not limited to the UK only, but global economies are also facing the same change.
The report clearly states that machines are increasingly handling tasks that are easy to repeat.
However, demand for high-skilled jobs will increase, but there will be increasing pressure on low-skilled workers.
The report states that automation will first impact roles where the work is repetitive, routine based, or can be easily done through data and machines.
These include: admin staff, machine operators, warehouse workers, cashiers, and trade jobs such as plumbers, roofers, electrical assistants.
“The biggest danger of AI is not that it will replace humans, but that it will hit the most vulnerable workforce first—those with the least means to upgrade their skills,” says NFER researcher Dr. Miles Benson.
One positive aspect of the report is that about 23 lakh new jobs are likely to be created in the next decade. But where will these jobs be?
In the areas of engineering, science and research, education, health care, and technological development.
Experts believe that AI will not replace professionals, but will change the way they work. Such as data analysis will be done by AI, document drafting will be handled by AI, and research pre-processing will be done by machines.
This may reduce the need for mid-level or junior roles.
The most worrying aspect of the report is that new jobs will be created, but they will mostly be in high-skilled sectors.
It may not be easy for people with lower skills to access these roles.
“The number of people who are going to lose their livelihoods could be between 1 million and 3 million. The biggest challenge will be to make them eligible for new jobs,” says NFER Director Hillary Stein.
This means that reskilling programs will be needed in the coming years.
Many global companies are restructuring their teams because of AI.
Clifford Chance has cut 10% of staff in its London office.
PwC has canceled 1 lakh recruitment plans for 2021–2026.
Apple has reduced some roles in its sales team.
Google has laid off more than 100 people in its design and cloud units.
However, the report also makes it clear that AI is not the only reason for all the layoffs, but economic uncertainty is also a big reason.
This trend is not exclusive to the UK, but its impact is evident in many countries including India.
The speed at which companies are adopting AI is bound to change the nature of work.
The need for youth and professionals to keep their skills updated is greater than ever.
Governments and education institutions need to focus on future-ready skills.
