https://arab.news/nn4hf
Across the world, people are debating whether college and postgraduate degrees are still worth the investment, especially with the slowdown in technology hiring and fears of unemployment caused by automation. Yet the evidence suggests that graduates from elite institutions continue to be more successful in finding jobs and building careers than others. Despite economic uncertainties and the rapid advance of artificial intelligence, higher education at the top end of the spectrum continues to hold its worth — for now.
As the landscape of work and learning keeps evolving, Tarek Fadlallah, the Dubai-based managing director and chief executive officer of Nomura Asset Management (Middle East), puts it this way: “You can never have too much formal education, even in the age of AI.”
That said, over the past year, job cuts in Silicon Valley and Europe have shaken confidence among young professionals. Across 2024–2025, more than 400,000 technology layoffs have been announced worldwide, even as firms across sectors ramp up hiring in AI and data roles. At the same time, AI-driven automation is altering traditional career paths.
For proof, look no further than a few recent Wall Street Journal headlines: “UK economy faces rising risk of a ‘hard landing,’ says BOE’s Taylor” (Oct. 14); “Australia’s jobless rate jumps” (Oct. 15); “Eurozone industrial production swings back to decline” (Oct. 15); and “In a sea of tech talent, companies can’t find the workers they want” (Oct. 1).
