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AI skills: A ticket to the future

Virginia Kouridaki for JAEurope

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undeniably not just a buzzword. It is everywhere; it is reshaping industries, creating new career paths, and transforming the way we live and work. For young people keeping in touch with such a huge technological advancement should not be just an option but rather essential. Whether you are still in secondary education, at university, about to graduate or already working, if you learn to use AI now you will thank yourself later. 

 

Why the AI revolution should matter to you

AI is here to stay. It has penetrated our daily lives, from the voice assistants on our phones to our recommendations on Netflix. According to a report by the World Economic Forum (2020), AI is expected to create 97 million new jobs by 2025, while also making many traditional ones obsolete. Recent data from the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Future of Jobs Report indicates that AI has been the most disruptive force in the past five years, leading to the creation of 19 million jobs and the displacement of 9 million, yielding a net gain of 10 million jobs. The net gain might be lower than the 2020 prediction but it is still significant.

This serves as a reminder that the time to get familiar with AI technologies is now as it will be increasingly a prerequisite for the jobs of the future. As economist Richard Baldwin stated during a panel at the 2023 World Economic Forum’s Growth Summit: “AI is not going to steal your job, someone who knows how to use it will”.

For young people, this is both an opportunity and a challenge. As AI expert Kai-Fu Lee put it: “The AI revolution will be as disruptive as the industrial revolution, and those who understand it will shape the future, while those who don’t risk being left behind.”

It seems more crucial than ever therefore for the youth to have educational opportunities to get ahead of the curve with Artificial Intelligence. 

 

Countries leading the charge in AI education and innovation

Nations across the globe are recognising the pressing need to prepare their citizens for an AI-driven future, shaping how societies work, learn, and innovate. Among these, Finland, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France are emerging as leaders, each following distinct paths in nurturing AI literacy and expertise.

Seed of AI awareness in Finland

Finland, renowned for its progressive education system, embraced AI at a grassroots level. The country’s launch of “Elements of AI,” a free online course tailored for beginners, marks a pivotal step in demystifying complex concepts. With over 1% of the population participating — an impressive figure for a country of just 5.5 million people — the course is a case study in accessibility and impact.

What’s more, its global visibility cannot be understated. The course, now available in multiple languages, encourages lifelong learning and inspires a much broader audience. Finland’s initiative highlights the power of education in equipping individuals not just for the jobs of today, but for those of the future, regardless of prior expertise or socioeconomic background.

From classrooms to laboratories in the UK

Across the North Sea, the United Kingdom has adopted a top-down approach, incorporating elements of AI and computational thinking into school curricula. Students are introduced to coding and algorithms early on, creating a strong foundation that can evolve with higher education. This effort ties neatly into the country’s broader National AI Strategy, which aims to cultivate homegrown talent while competing on the global stage.

For those pursuing advanced learning, world-class institutions like Oxford and Cambridge offer cutting-edge programs in AI and related sciences. These opportunities bridge the gap between theory and application, fostering a new generation of specialists who are fully prepared to contribute to the industry. The concerted investment in education, infrastructure, and research demonstrates the UK’s determination to maintain its position as a hub of technological and AI innovation.

Germany’s pursuit of excellence

Germany is betting heavily on the intersection between research and education. Its government-led efforts include generous funding for AI research centers and the gradual infusion of AI topics into school curricula, laying the groundwork for general awareness and competence. This approach reflects Germany’s organised and methodical push to stay ahead in a competitive field.

At the university level, prestigious institutions like the Technical University of Munich and the University of Stuttgart are leading the charge. Their specialised AI programs not only attract European students but have also made Germany a focal point for aspiring researchers worldwide. For a country that thrives on industrial strength and precision-driven innovations, investing in AI ensures its manufacturing and technological sectors remain unparalleled as challenges evolve.

France’s vision of creativity and innovation

Meanwhile, France is approaching AI with a mix of technical rigor and creative openness. Paris has emerged as a thriving epicenter for world-class AI research, hosting renowned tech labs and fostering collaborations between academia and industry. From this vantage point, the French government has steadily updated the education system, introducing AI courses in both high schools and universities.

Yet the vision extends beyond technical mastery. By promoting critical thinking and creativity, France underscores the idea that the future of AI will not merely depend on mathematical skill sets but also on the ability to innovate and adapt. This balance springs from the belief that AI is a tool to empower solutions as much as it is a science to perfect.

Estonia’s pioneering AI leap in education

Recently, Estonia joined the growing list of nations prioritising AI integration in education with a groundbreaking initiative, positioning itself as a global leader. Under the “AI Leap” program, the Estonian government, in collaboration with OpenAI, Anthropic, and private entrepreneurs, is set to provide free access to AI tools like ChatGPT Edu for 20,000 high school students in grades 10-11 and their 3,000 teachers starting this September. The project aims to extend its reach to vocational schools and additional students the following year, preparing a new generation for the AI-driven future. Minister of Education and Research, Kristina Kallas, highlighted the necessity of investing in teacher training to ensure the program’s effectiveness. Backed by a public-private foundation, this visionary project underscores Estonia’s role as an innovator in education and offers a potential blueprint for other nations to follow.

 

Shared aspirations, unique paths

While each nation has developed distinct methods tailored to its culture, priorities, and existing strengths, their overarching goals align. They seek to democratise AI education, nurture a homegrown talent base, and remain competitive in a tech-powered global economy. Initiatives like Finland’s free online courses, the UK’s nationwide integration of AI in schools, Germany’s high-profile research hubs, and France’s vision of combining creativity with technical skills all paint a picture of determined progress. What is more, many universities across Europe are now offering AI-related courses, making it easier than ever to get started specialising in the field.

AI is not merely a trend — it is reshaping how the world approaches problem-solving, innovation, and growth. These four nations are setting templates for others to follow, proving that with a blend of foresight, resource allocation, and educational reform, societies can thrive in an unpredictable and exciting future. The opportunities — and challenges — of an AI-powered world beckon, and these countries are already at the forefront of preparing the next generation to meet them head-on.

 

Where Europe can catch up

While Europe has taken notable steps in advancing AI education and innovation, it faces significant hurdles in keeping pace with global leaders such as the United States and China. These nations have secured a competitive edge through unparalleled investments and strategic priorities in the AI sector. The United States, for example, boasts tech behemoths like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI — major drivers of AI research and development that are shaping the future of the technology. Meanwhile, China has designated AI as a critical national focus, dedicating immense resources to bolster AI education, infrastructure, and innovation.

To bridge this gap, Europe must ramp up funding for AI research and strengthen the ties between academia and industry to accelerate groundbreaking advancements. Equally important is the need to make AI education more accessible, nurturing a skilled workforce capable of meeting future demands. Promising efforts have already emerged from countries like Estonia, which prioritises digital literacy from a young age, and Sweden, known for its progressive AI policies. However, achieving meaningful progress will require a united, continent-wide strategy — a commitment to collaboration that matches the global scale and urgency of AI’s evolution.

Why AI skills are a must-have in today’s job market

Navigating the modern job market is no easy feat, and standing out in a crowded field requires more than just determination. Employers are increasingly seeking candidates equipped with specialised skills, and expertise in AI is rapidly emerging as a game-changer. LinkedIn’s 2023 “Jobs on the Rise” report highlights AI and machine learning specialists as some of the fastest-growing roles worldwide, underscoring a major shift in workforce demands.

The need for AI proficiency is clear. With a shortage of skilled professionals in this area, those who invest in learning AI gain a distinct advantage. Beyond the tech sector, AI’s influence spans a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, entertainment, and agriculture. This versatility makes AI knowledge an invaluable asset regardless of the career path you pursue. And as automation reshapes the workplace, traditional jobs are being transformed — or replaced entirely. Acquiring AI expertise isn’t just an investment in your career today; it’s a proactive step to ensure long-term relevance and adaptability in the face of rapid technological change.

How to get started with AI

Exploring AI doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. A great way to start is by downloading AI-powered apps and experimenting with them. Whether it’s trying out apps that generate art, assist with answers, or even help you learn languages, these tools offer real-world examples of AI in action. This hands-on exploration not only helps you understand how AI works but also sparks ideas on how it can be applied in different contexts. Along the way, you’ll develop valuable insights and skills that could bolster your portfolio. To stay ahead, make it a habit to explore new apps and features, and remain curious about emerging AI innovations. This practical approach keeps learning engaging while helping you stay informed about the latest trends in this fast-evolving field.

You can also take the leap into the world of AI by exploring online courses offered by platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity. Many of these courses are beginner-friendly and even free, letting you build a solid foundation at your own pace. Connect with AI communities, such as Reddit’s r/MachineLearning or AI-focused Discord groups, to learn from others, exchange ideas, and stay inspired.

Additionally, you can take advantage of initiatives that focus on empowering youth with AI knowledge. Programmes by organisations like JA Europe are doing just that. Through initiatives like AI-ENTR4YOUTH, which combines AI education with practical projects, and the JA Company Programme with an AI focus, blending technology training with real-world business expertise, they’re equipping the next generation to thrive in a fast-changing landscape. These programmes not only offer skills to understand and innovate with AI but also prepare you to apply what you learn in meaningful, impactful ways. Take charge of your future and discover how these opportunities can help you develop the knowledge and confidence to lead in the digital age.

Finally, keep yourself informed as AI continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Stay in the loop by following reliable AI news sources, exploring insightful research papers, and participating in engaging webinars. Keeping up with these developments not only broadens your perspective but also ensures you’re well-prepared to make thoughtful choices about your career path and future in this dynamic field.

Opportunities to explore AI are expanding every day, and starting now can open doors to endless possibilities. Every small step you take brings you closer to mastering skills that could not only transform your own future but also influence the technological landscape of the world to come. Don’t wait — the future is yours to create!

References

Baldwin, R. (2023, May). AI won’t take your job, but someone who can use it might. Business Insider. Retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-wont-take-your-job-someone-who-uses-it-might-2023-5

Elements of AI. (n.d.). What is AI? Retrieved from https://course.elementsofai.com/1/

EPFL. (n.d.). Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning. Retrieved from https://www.epfl.ch/schools/ic/research/artificial-intelligence-machine-learning/

Federal Ministry of Education and Research. (2021). Germany’s AI Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.bmbf.de/SharedDocs/Publikationen/de/bmbf/FS/31538_Forschung_und_Innovation_fuer_die_Menschen_en.pdf?__blob=publicationFile&v=7

French Ministry of Education. (2020). AI in French Schools. Retrieved from https://www.education.gouv.fr/presentation-de-l-etude-elaine-303264

KTH. (n.d.). Courses for Machine Learning. Retrieved from https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/machine-learning/courses-machine-learning-1.412669

Lee, K.-F. (2018). AI superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the new world order. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

LinkedIn. (2023). Jobs on the Rise 2023. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-jobs-rise-2023-25-us-roles-growing-demand-linkedin-news/

Marr, B. (2021). How China is using AI in education. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com

Technical University of Munich. (n.d.). Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-time Systems. Retrieved from https://www.ce.cit.tum.de/en/air/home/

UK Government. (2021). National AI Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-ai-strategy

University of Amsterdam. (n.d.). Master Artificial Intelligence. Retrieved from https://www.uva.nl/shared-content/programmas/en/masters/artificial-intelligence/artificial-intelligence.html

University of Oxford. (n.d.). Machine Learning Research Group. Retrieved from https://eng.ox.ac.uk/about/machine-learning-research-group/

Wold, J. W. (2025, February 25). Estonia announces world-first ‘AI Leap’ to roll out chatbots in all schools. Euractiv. Retrieved from https://www.euractiv.com/section/tech/news/estonia-announces-world-first-ai-leap-to-roll-out-chatbots-in-all-schools/

World Economic Forum. (2025). The Future of Jobs Report 2025. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/

World Economic Forum. (2020). The Future of Jobs Report 2020. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2020/

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