UTAR President shares insights on AI, careers and
future skills with students

Front row, from left: Dr David Tneh, Dr Pok, Prof Thong, Prof Dato’ Ewe, Mr West Wong, and Prof Chang with participants

The Department of Alumni Relations and Placement (DARP) organised a talk titled From Campus to Career: Navigating AI, Work & Life. A Session with the UTAR President on 14 July 2026 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. A total of 256 participants seized the opportunity to gain direct insights into understanding the job market and the impact of AI on their future careers.

The session featured UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science Dean Ir Prof Dr Chang Yoong Choon, M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Dean Prof Dr Thong Meow Keong, Faculty of Creative Industries Dean Assoc Prof Dr David Tneh Cheng Eng, and Faculty of Accountancy and Management Dean Assoc Prof Dr Pok Wei Fong.

Prof Dato’ Ewe began by introducing the concept of AI, tracing its development and explaining how it is reshaping industries, workplaces, and the future of society. He also highlighted emerging job roles and professions that are expected to become increasingly relevant in the years ahead, encouraging students to prepare themselves for the evolving job market. He emphasised the importance of developing future-ready competencies such as adaptability, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and lifelong learning to remain competitive in an AI-driven world.

He then discussed the realities of today’s employment landscape, covering topics such as the causes of unemployment, future workplace challenges, and the growing mental health issues faced by modern society. By sharing these insights, Prof Dato’ Ewe encouraged students to better understand the changing demands of the workforce and to cultivate resilience and a positive mindset when facing future uncertainties.

To further equip students for their career journey, Prof Dato’ Ewe shared practical interview tips, including preparing an effective resume, researching a company's background, understanding the qualities employers seek, and presenting themselves confidently during interviews. His advice provided students with valuable guidance on enhancing their employability and making a positive first impression on potential employers.

Concluding his talk, Prof Dato’ Ewe encouraged students to adopt a growth mindset, embrace challenges with courage, and never stop learning. He reminded them that success is not achieved overnight but through continuous practice, perseverance, and the willingness to step outside their comfort zones. While AI will continue to transform the workplace, he emphasised that human qualities such as creativity, life experience, and effective communication will remain invaluable in shaping successful careers.

Prof Dato’ Ewe delivering his talk

During the forum session, Mr West Wong, a UTAR alumnus widely recognised as the “human calculator” and the Founder of Ai Tech House, served as the moderator. He engaged Prof Dato’ Ewe and the deans in a thought-provoking discussion, inviting them to share valuable advice on career development and future readiness. He also captivated the audience with an impressive mental calculation demonstration, highlighting the importance of continuously training the human brain rather than becoming overly dependent on AI.

The ongoing forum

When asked by Mr West Wong how students could discover their passion, Prof Dato’ Ewe encouraged them to explore as many opportunities and experiences as possible until they found something they genuinely enjoyed. He explained that when students pursue work aligned with their interests, they are more likely to enter a “flow state”, allowing them to perform at their best while finding greater satisfaction and purpose in their careers.

Prof Dato’ Ewe during the forum session

Prof Chang emphasised the importance of cultivating a growth mindset. He encouraged students to spend more time reading books instead of endlessly scrolling through social media, as continuous learning and knowledge acquisition would better prepare them to adapt and thrive in the AI era.

Prof Chang

Responding to Mr West Wong’s question on the strengths of humans over AI from a business perspective, Dr Pok highlighted that while AI can process vast amounts of information efficiently, it can never fully replace the unique qualities of humans. She also encouraged female students to be courageous in taking on challenges and stepping outside their comfort zones, believing that greater opportunities often come to those who are willing to take calculated risks.

Dr Pok

Dr David Tneh encouraged students to “find themselves” by exploring the world beyond the classroom, spending time outdoors, experiencing different cultures and perspectives, and drawing inspiration from their surroundings. He reminded students to “embrace natural intelligence alongside artificial intelligence,” stressing that genuine creativity originates from observation and lived experiences.

Dr David Tneh

The session not only provided practical guidance for students preparing to enter the workforce but also inspired them to embrace lifelong learning, remain adaptable in an ever-evolving world, and harness AI as a tool to complement, rather than replace human potential.