Q. I have completed Class 12. Should students like me focus more on fundamentals or AI tools in the current market? — Nikhil ReddyFundamentals must come first because they develop analytical thinking and problem-solving ability. AI tools should be treated as accelerators, not substitutes for knowledge. Students must have a strong formal education and simultaneously build digital and AI literacy through platforms like SWAYAM Plus and internships. Technology is changing rapidly, so continuous learning, adaptability, and discipline are now essential for long-term employability.Q. Many colleges are struggling when it comes to placements. What do you think state universities can do to improve placements and industry exposure? — Manikanta DState universities must strengthen industry partnerships through Professors of Practice, mandatory internships, skill-based courses, startup incubation, and project-based learning. Greater collaboration with industries, alumni, and research organizations is essential. At the same time, students must understand that employability depends heavily on individual initiative, communication skills, practical exposure, and proactive career preparation.Q. I am in the third year of my BTech and want to know what skills students should focus on during graduation to remain employable in the long term. — G AbhinayStudents should focus on both technical and human skills. Emerging areas such as AI applications, cybersecurity, semiconductors, robotics, climate technology, defense systems, and data analytics will create major opportunities. Alongside technical expertise, communication, teamwork, leadership, financial awareness, and adaptability are equally important. Building projects, pursuing internships, and developing problem-solving ability during graduation are critical for long-term employability.Q. Is there a way to decide which course suits me best? Should I blindly go by the marks secured in intermediate while choosing a graduation stream? How should I choose between BTech, BSc, BCom, or BA? — Anoop KumarMarks alone should never decide a student’s future. Students must evaluate their interests, aptitude, personality, and long-term goals before choosing a stream. Every discipline today offers strong career opportunities if pursued seriously. Under the National Education Policy 2020, multidisciplinary learning has also expanded career flexibility. The right choice aligns with your strengths and sustained interest.Q. Are there any courses, at the graduate and postgraduate levels, that won’t be replaced by AI? Also, can you share which careers are expected to grow because of AI? — Nagarajamani MVNo course is completely immune to AI, but careers requiring creativity, leadership, field expertise, research, and human judgment will continue to grow. AI is expected to create opportunities in healthcare technology, defense systems, robotics, climate science, cybersecurity, semiconductor technology, data systems, automation, mineral exploration, mining, and space research. Students should focus on learning how to work effectively with AI rather than treating it as a threat.Q. For commerce or finance graduates and postgraduates, which AI tools are relevant and necessary to learn? Is it essential to know coding, design, or algorithms before training in AI tools? — B Gopalakrishna MurthyCommerce and finance students should learn AI-assisted analytics, financial reporting, business intelligence tools, forecasting systems, and data interpretation platforms. Coding knowledge can be beneficial, but it is not essential for everyone. More important are analytical thinking, business understanding, communication ability, and decision-making skills. Areas such as fintech, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) finance, tax technology, insurance, and digital banking are expected to grow significantly.Q. I have completed my graduation in BA Mass Communication and am looking for PG options. I want to pursue an MBA but would also like to know if there are any other PG courses that are in high demand in the current AI-driven market. — Khushi ManiyarApart from MBA, students can consider digital media strategy, corporate communication, AI-assisted content management, public relations, data storytelling, media analytics, and digital branding. In media-related fields, employability increasingly depends on communication quality, portfolios, and practical exposure. Building strong writing, presentation, and content creation skills is equally important alongside formal qualifications.Q. Are there any universities that specialise in medical research? What does the future look like for this field? Is going to the US for medical research a better option? — Rubeena TalatMedical research has strong future potential in both India and abroad. India is expanding rapidly in biotechnology, genomics, pharmaceutical research, public health, and medical AI. Students should carefully evaluate funding opportunities, research facilities, long-term career goals, and financial costs before deciding between India and the US. The best option depends on research interest, sustainability, and long-term professional planning.Q. I have just completed Class 12 and want to know what criteria students should use while choosing a college. I am considering BTech and BSc courses. — Anjali BStudents should evaluate colleges based on faculty quality, research culture, internships, industry exposure, laboratories, mentorship, placement transparency, and interdisciplinary learning opportunities. However, a student’s growth ultimately depends on how effectively they use the opportunities available to them; motivation, consistency, and active participation matter as much as institutional reputation.Q. Are internships, certifications, and online courses now as important as college degrees for getting jobs? — K SruthiFormal degrees continue to provide an academic foundation and credibility, but internships, certifications, projects, and practical skills are now equally important for employability. Employers increasingly value hands-on experience, problem-solving ability, and communication skills. Students should focus on gaining real competency rather than simply collecting certificates.Q. Do you think the current university curriculum needs major changes to match industry requirements and AI advancements? If yes, what kind of changes are needed? — Ch SanjayYes, universities must continuously update curricula to align with emerging technologies and industry requirements. Greater focus is needed on interdisciplinary learning, AI literacy, internships, entrepreneurship, research exposure, communication skills, and project-based learning. However, students should also develop the habit of self-learning because industry requirements evolve faster than formal curricula.Q. With many students from the Telugu states planning to study abroad, how can they decide whether pursuing higher education in India or overseas is the better option?Students should make this decision based on academic goals, finances, research opportunities, career plans, and long-term sustainability rather than social trends. Studying abroad can offer global exposure and advanced infrastructure, but it also involves high costs and uncertainty. India is simultaneously emerging as a major hub for technology, healthcare, startups, manufacturing, and research, creating strong opportunities domestically as well.Q. What are some emerging career fields that students should consider over the next five to 10 years? — G GouthamiDefense technology, semiconductors, AI applications, robotics, renewable energy, climate management, cybersecurity, healthcare technology, biotechnology, space systems, logistics, and smart infrastructure are expected to witness strong growth over the next decade. India’s digital expansion and infrastructure growth will create large-scale demand for skilled professionals in these sectors.Q. Is research becoming a viable career option in India, and what opportunities are available for students interested in it? — Thanuj KrishnaYes, research is becoming an increasingly viable career option in India across science, engineering, medicine, agriculture, AI, defense, and sustainability. Students should actively pursue research internships, faculty collaborations, publications, conferences, and funded projects. Curiosity, consistency, and long-term commitment are essential qualities for building a successful research career.Q. All my friends are planning to join BTech, and even my parents are suggesting that I study engineering. Many students like me feel pressured to follow trending courses or careers. How can we identify our strengths and make better career choices? — I AravindhStudents should avoid choosing careers purely because they are popular or socially accepted. Spend time understanding your interests, aptitude, work style, and long-term goals. Speak with mentors, teachers, and professionals rather than following peer pressure alone. Career satisfaction and long-term success usually come when students’ strengths and interests align with their chosen field.
