Future of Education: India’s Chief Economic Advisor (CEA), V. Anantha Nageswaran, has urged young people to rethink traditional career paths. He states that in a changing economy, merely possessing a degree does not guarantee employment.
Speaking on an ANI podcast, Nageswaran noted that many students follow a predictable educational trajectory, pursuing higher studies or preparing for competitive exams like the UPSC after graduation, without considering whether these qualifications will lead to sustainable, long-term employment.
Citing advice he has given to his own children and those of his friends, the CEA pointed out that vocational professions such as welding, plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work have historically been undervalued in India. He contrasted this with countries like Switzerland, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and China, where trade skills are accorded greater respect.
“The era of globalisation boosted fields like software, computer science, and MBAs, but that phase has now passed,” Nageswaran said. He added that the future belongs to trade skills, soft skills, and professions that require human understanding and presence.
To illustrate his point, he recounted a conversation with a young chef who felt he was lagging behind friends working in other professions. Nageswaran advised him not to measure his progress based on social media posts, arguing that Artificial Intelligence (AI) cannot easily replicate culinary skills. “You have acquired a skill that technology cannot easily imitate,” he said.
He further noted that careers in fields such as counselling, caregiving, and hospitality are likely to become increasingly important in the coming years. The CEA also linked employability to health. While there is often debate about whether India will grow old before it becomes rich, he noted that a major concern is whether the nation is becoming unhealthy before it becomes prosperous.
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