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AI isn’t just for techies anymore - it’s for everyone. And that’s why AI education is critical for our society and economy

  • Oriental Tech ESC
  • Mar 3
  • 3 min read

Updated: Mar 4

As a headhunter, I’ve observed that even IT managers and directors at some major Hong Kong/Singapore corporations struggle with basic AI concepts. This is not surprising given that AI is a rapidly evolving field, and many professionals, even in IT, may not have had the opportunity to keep up with the latest developments. This gap in AI literacy hinders productivity and innovation, emphasizing why AI education must be introduced to all university students. No advanced society can ignore this path.


Think about this: In the past, topics like Systems, Security, or Infrastructure were IT’s domain - Finance, HR, Marketing, Legal and Sales folks could tune out. Not anymore. AI is different; it's not just a tool for IT. It's a tool that can be used by anyone to improve their work, make better decisions, and drive innovation in their respective fields. Therefore, having a basic understanding of AI is essential for professionals across all disciplines.


AI is transforming every function, from automating repetitive tasks to unlocking insights that redefine how we work. For example:


  • Marketers can use machine learning algorithms to analyze customer data and predict buying behavior, allowing them to tailor their campaigns more effectively.

  • HR leaders can use AI-powered tools for resume screening, automating the initial selection process and saving time for more strategic tasks.

  • Salespeople can leverage natural language processing to analyze customer interactions and create more personalized pitches, improving conversion rates.


But here’s the catch: IT can’t do it alone. Your IT team might know AI, but they don’t know your world—your sales pipeline, your customer service challenges, your legal nuances. That’s why we need professionals who combine AI knowledge with their own functional expertise.


Imagine a finance expert using AI to overhaul risk analysis or a legal professional leveraging it to sift through contracts faster. This isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about innovation at the intersection of technology and domain know-how.


What’s the Fix?  

To ensure everyone is equipped for an AI-driven world, universities need to step up with a structured approach to AI education. Here’s how they can make it happen:


  1. Mandatory AI Education for All:


    Universities should require one semester of a basic AI knowledge course for every student, regardless of their major. This introductory course would cover:

    • The history and basics of AI

    • Key concepts such as machine learning and neural networks

    • Real-world applications across various industries

    • Ethical considerations, including bias and privacy


      Whether you’re studying biology, business, or fine arts, this foundational literacy ensures you’re not left behind in a world where AI touches everything.



  1. Flexible, Deeper Learning Options:


Beyond the basics, universities should offer step-by-step AI learning courses that even non-IT or non-Engineering students can take as part of their major or minor. This allows:

  • A marketing student to dive into AI-driven customer analytics

  • A psychology major to explore AI in behavioral modeling

  • A literature student to experiment with natural language processing


    These courses are tailored to their field, building on the mandatory foundation with practical, domain-specific skills.


This dual approach — Mandatory basics plus optional depth — bridges the gap between AI and every profession. It’s a concrete way to create an AI-literate workforce ready to innovate across industries.


By making AI literacy a priority, universities can prepare students to harness the full potential of AI while navigating its challenges responsibly.


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