Forget one major. Grads may need 10 minors in the AI age: Piyush Gupta

In a Straits Times interview, SMU Chairman Piyush Gupta stated that as AI makes knowledge instantly accessible, universities must shift from transferring information to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and cross-disciplinary reasoning. He noted that SMU’s College of Integrative Studies already enables students to explore diverse courses and customise their learning journey. 

Instead of banning AI, Mr Gupta emphasised that universities must adapt to prevent “cognitive debt” while teaching students to verify AI output, as well as partner with companies to integrate early practical experience through internships. He also highlighted that universities must evolve beyond four-year degrees to support lifelong learning.