Recently, Ryan Roslansky, CEO of LinkedIn, said that “the future of work no longer belongs to those with the fanciest degrees or who studied at the best colleges, but to those who are adaptable, forward-thinking, and ready to embrace AI tools.”

It’s an important reminder of how fast the world of work is changing. But I’d like to add a word of balance for students — especially in a country like India.

Please don’t take such statements literally as a reason to stop pursuing education. In a growing economy like ours, formal learning remains a lifelong asset. Even in an AI-driven world, education is still the most reliable path to improving one’s quality of life — ethically and sustainably.

Many such statements, though well-intentioned, tend to amplify the aura around AI — sometimes to promote platforms, products, or investments. Even the most sincere innovators can fall in love with their own creations and overestimate their reach.

I use AI every day. I read, write, and advise on it constantly. Yet I can say this with conviction — no matter how advanced AI becomes, a strong academic foundation and disciplined learning will always matter. Anyone who tells you otherwise is not being fully honest.

Let’s embrace AI with curiosity, but hold on to education with conviction. The future belongs to those who can balance both — grounded in knowledge, guided by values, and open to change.