Crucial to integrate GenAI into disciplines like chemistry or biology

As the landscape of technology continues to evolve, transcending geographical boundaries, one key avenue that has played a pivotal role in preparing India’s tech-savvy professionals is the collaboration with foreign universities.

We are delving into the current landscape of global tech education and highlighting the key evolution in tech courses over the years with Dr. Yannis Yortsos, Dean of USC Viterbi School of Engineering, and Dr. Gaurav Sukhatme, Fletcher Jones Chair in Computer Science and Executive Vice Dean at the University of Southern California. Excerpts from an interview:

Could you elaborate on the current landscape of global tech education and highlight the key evolution in tech courses over the years?

Dr. Yannis: AI, particularly GenAI, is becoming increasingly integral in various industries, prompting USC and other institutions to adapt their engineering undergraduate programs’ curricula. This initiative, predating the introduction of GPT, aims to equip graduating engineers with advanced computing tools crucial for industry success. The ongoing revolution in industries, from communications to chemical engineering, underscores the importance of this adaptation. While there’s a notable increase in students studying computer science, it’s crucial to integrate this knowledge with other disciplines like chemistry or biology. USC is restructuring its curricula, including master’s programs, to foster this integration and facilitate fruitful outcomes by applying computing advances to diverse fields.

While there’s a notable increase in students studying computer science, it’s crucial to integrate this knowledge with other disciplines like chemistry or biology.

With USC’s presence in India, are there any plans to establish a school there?

Dr. Yannis: We have partnerships with several institutions, including one with IISC in Bangalore dating back to 2006. We’re evaluating various options such as physical presence, dual degrees, partnerships, and exchange student programs. These decisions require approval from the entire university as USC currently lacks a physical presence in any country.

Dr. Gautam: We’re enthusiastic about collaborating with Indian universities, having established partnerships with several. During this visit, we’re actively engaged with IIT Bombay and hydrophones. We’re focused on creating innovative programs for student interchange, with further details to be announced once formalized.

Are you partnering with IT companies for placements?

Dr. Yannis: We recently had a meeting with Indian entrepreneurs who shared intriguing ideas to strengthen connections between USC graduates and Indian students, as well as the burgeoning innovation ecosystem in India. Unlike the past, where most students who came to the US tended to stay, there’s now a significant number expressing interest in returning to India. Similar trends have been observed with Chinese students. We’re actively enhancing ties with local industries to offer opportunities for students to pursue internships or employment in India’s growing tech landscape.

What unique qualities do you think Indian students bring to the tech landscape?

Dr. Gaurav: Many Indian students exhibit a remarkable blend of technological proficiency and innovative thinking. While Indian universities excel in preparing students in technology, this quality isn’t exclusive to them. What sets Indian students apart is their innate inclination towards innovation and their ability to efficiently apply technology to solve real-world problems. They often demonstrate a knack for achieving project goals with minimal resources, reflecting their aptitude for practical and efficient solutions. This observation, while not universal, is noteworthy and highlights the unique perspective Indian students bring to academic projects.

Dr. Yannis: Additionally, I believe there are a couple of unique traits prevalent among Indian students, although there are exceptions. Firstly, many Indian students have a strong desire to prove themselves, not only to their families but also to validate the investment made in their education. This drive stems from a deep-rooted sense of responsibility, to not disappoint or waste the resources and support provided by their families.

Secondly, Indian students tend to be naturally ambitious, albeit in a positive manner. They strive to pursue endeavors that are distinct and captivating, displaying a reluctance to settle for the status quo. This ambition is not driven by ruthlessness but by a genuine aspiration to innovate and contribute in meaningful ways. This characteristic extends to faculty members as well, who are constantly seeking novel ideas and approaches to distinguish themselves and advance their fields. This pursuit of excellence and continuous improvement reflects a healthy competitiveness and a shared mentality of making a difference, akin to the ethos found in other cultures like the Greek mentality of “God’s eye”.

Considering the profound impact of AI on various industries, how do you foresee its evolving role in reshaping the employment landscape specifically in India?

Dr. Yannis: AI is a disruptive force with immense potential, transitioning from periods of overpromising to tangible impact today. Institutions of higher learning must proactively prepare for AI’s future by fostering agility and embracing multidisciplinary approaches. While AI offers transformative possibilities in fields like healthcare and security, it also poses challenges such as job displacement. Effective anticipation and response strategies are essential to navigate AI’s evolving landscape.

Dr. Gautam: One interesting positive aspect of disruption is the creation of entirely new industries. Faculty members are emphasizing the importance of teaching students to think ahead, not just in terms of replacing conventional practices with AI, but also in imagining entirely new possibilities that were previously unimaginable.

What advice would you give to individuals facing layoffs, particularly amid global workforce reductions? Additionally, what key skills and competencies are essential for them to secure new employment opportunities?

Dr. Yannis: Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, the surge in online reliance led many large companies to over-hire employees. As we transition back to normalcy, there’s an opportunity for smaller startups and companies to absorb this surplus talent. While tech giants like Google or Meta often dominate discussions, smaller companies are actively seeking skilled individuals as well. In this context, adaptability and delivering value are paramount. Mega-companies will continue to attract talent, emphasizing the importance of innovative approaches. Having worked for industry giants like Amazon and AWS, I can attest to the significance of agility and innovation in maintaining competitiveness within the tech industry.

While tech giants like Google or Meta often dominate discussions, smaller companies are actively seeking skilled individuals as well.

Dr. Gautam: I fully agree with Yannis’ analysis. We’re witnessing a transformation in the job market dynamics. Despite initial over-hiring by some companies, there’s now a visible resurgence in recruitment activities. Particularly noteworthy is the increased demand for students proficient in AI and Machine Learning, especially in computing. Furthermore, there’s a notable uptick in hiring from non-traditional players who were previously less active in these domains. We anticipate that our students will possess a competitive edge in this evolving landscape.

How does USC address the challenge of ensuring diversity and inclusivity in tech programs, specifically in India, where diversity is prevalent?

Dr. Yannis: I believe we need to start changing the conversation about what engineering and technology entail. The concept of purposefulness, where you work to solve bigger problems with a broader impact, such as sustainability, is crucial.

Dr. Yannis Yortsos

Dean, USC Viterbi School of Engineering

Dr. Gaurav Sukhatme

Fletcher Jones Chair in Computer Science and Executive Vice Dean, University of Southern California

 By Aanchal Ghatak

aanchalg@cybermedia.co.in