Can AI replace software engineers in FUTURE?

Higher education institutions must find ways to teach students not only how to use the AI tools but also how to critically evaluate them

- ANINDITA ACHARYA

Kolkata-based software engineer Prantik Majumdar had his life all mapped out. He had a stable job at a big tech giant and wedding bells were set to ring in February. But two months ago, that plan hit a roadblock when he was laid off. The company never gave him a clear reason, but he has little doubt that the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) played a part. AI isn't some distant sci-fi fantasy anymore. It's here, changing the game faster than most can keep up. And those who don't adapt? They risk getting left behind.

As of August 20, 2024, tech companies have laid off over 124,000 employees, pushing the total number of job cuts since 2022 to a staggering 428,449. A major driving force? Cost-cutting to fuel investments in AI. India has long been recognised as a global software talent hub, known for its skilled workforce and cost-effective services. Indian IT firms hire nearly half a million software graduates every year, with 98% of them being developers aged 18 to 35. Interestingly, the IT sector is ramping up fresher hiring this year, with entry-level recruitment expected to almost double compared to the previous fiscal year. But even as freshers enter the field, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over software engineers and experts warn that AI's rapid advancements could put many jobs at risk.