Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it's an integral part of our lives. In this rapidly evolving technological era, the nature of jobs is constantly changing. Amidst this transformation, Google DeepMind's CEO, Demis Hassabis, issued a crucial warning to young people, especially teenagers: "If you don't learn now, you'll be left behind tomorrow."
Demis Hassabis leads the lab developing Google's most advanced AI technologies, including the Gemini chatbot and future Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). He believes that within the next 10 years, AI systems capable of human-level thinking could be developed.
Advice for Young People in the AI Age: 'Learn the Art of Learning'
At Google's annual developer event, Google I/O 2025, and on the popular tech podcast Hard Fork, Hassabis shared his concerns and suggestions. He stated that just as the internet shaped millennials and smartphones defined Gen Z, generative AI will define Gen Alpha.
He emphasizes that the future belongs to AI learning. If today's youth fail to embrace it, they may regret it in the coming decade. This statement is particularly significant because today's students will form tomorrow's workforce, and AI will fundamentally alter their work styles.
The Job Market Will Transform in 5 to 10 Years Due to AI
Hassabis clearly stated that many existing jobs may disappear due to AI within the next 5 to 10 years. However, he also added that AI will create new, more creative, and valuable jobs. This transition won't be easy, but those who adapt in time will thrive.
He advised students to understand not just coding or technical skills but also the concepts and underlying principles of AI. It's not merely a skill but a way of thinking that can help young people overcome future challenges.
Beyond Technical Skills: The Importance of Meta Skills
Hassabis believes that in the future, technical knowledge alone (such as Python, Java, or Machine Learning) will not be sufficient. Young people need to develop meta-skills alongside STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), including critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity.
He stated, "AI can do what humans do, but the ability to think, feel, and imagine new possibilities is still a long way off for AI. Therefore, we must develop capabilities that machines cannot replicate."
'Become Technology Ninjas': Hassabis's Mantra for Students
Hassabis urged students to become technology ninjas—not just understanding technology but mastering it. He also emphasized that university education shouldn't be solely about degrees but about self-discovery and improving the learning process.
He believes that this era demands lifelong learning. AI and other technologies are changing so rapidly that relying solely on current knowledge will quickly lead to obsolescence.
Don't Fear the Pace of AI, Prepare for It
AI's progress generates both excitement and fear worldwide. Since OpenAI's ChatGPT, the pace of AI development has seemingly doubled. Many view it as a job killer, but Hassabis's perspective is different. He believes that if understood and used correctly, AI can be a powerful tool for humanity.
He stated that this is an era of change. Those who embrace change and move forward in new directions will become future leaders. AI will not be limited to computer science or data science; it will reach every field, from medicine and finance to law, education, and the arts.
Demis Hassabis's warning isn't meant to spread fear but to offer young people an opportunity—to become technologically proficient. AI is coming, or rather, it's already here. The choice is ours: to run from it or become a part of it. In this digital age, the 'art of learning' will be the greatest strength. Those who master it will not fear AI but will leverage it to advance.
