UTAR President guides students on navigating AI-driven careers

The Department of Alumni Relations and Placement (DARP) successfully organised a session titled “From Campus to Career: Navigating AI, Work & Life” with UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat. Held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 16 March 2026, the programme was designed to equip August 2026 graduating students with crucial insights into the evolving professional landscape shaped by artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

Present at the event were One Ping Sdn Bhd Founder Dato’ Ts Dr Vince Kek Ming Chyuan, 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 Accountancy and Management Dean Assoc Prof Dr Pok Wei Fong, Faculty of Education Dean Dr Wong Sien Biang and Faculty of Creative Industries Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Assoc Prof Mr Thinavan Periyayya.

Prof Dato’ Ewe delivered a comprehensive talk focused on preparing students for a future dominated by technological advancements. He discussed the shift from traditional roles to knowledge-based careers, emphasising the need for adaptability and a proactive approach to learning. He highlighted key emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, urging students to understand their potential impact across various industries.

Prof Dato’ Ewe delivering his talk

Prof Dato’ Ewe elaborated on the essential skills required to thrive in this new era. He stressed that beyond technical proficiency, soft skills such as problem-solving, effective communication, the ability to work under pressure, and a genuine willingness to learn are paramount. He advised students to maintain mental balance and physical well-being through regular exercise and positive habits, explaining how the brain’s “happy chemicals” like dopamine and serotonin contribute to motivation and emotional stability.

Following the address, a forum and Q&A session, hosted by Dato’ Dr Vince together with Prof Dato’ Ewe, Prof Chang, and Mr Thinavan, provided students with the opportunity to engage directly with the President and other distinguished faculty members. The lively discussion allowed students to seek clarification on career paths, industry expectations, and strategies for navigating the job market.

From left: Dato’ Dr Vince, Prof Dato’ Ewe, Prof Chang, and Mr Thinavan

The “From Campus to Career” session served as a vital platform for graduating students, equipping them with the knowledge and motivation to confidently step into their future careers. Concluding the session, Prof Dato’ Ewe left the students with a powerful message inspired by Stephen Covey, “To learn, to live, to love, and to leave a legacy” – a fitting call to action for the graduating cohort.