donnchadh
There has been a lot of discussion recently about artificial intelligence and how it may change the world of work. A new report highlighted by RTÉ, based on research from the Economic and Social Research Institute, adds an Irish perspective to that conversation.
For students currently filling out their CAO forms, this can feel like a lot to take in. You are being asked to make decisions now about a future that seems to be changing quickly.
This is not something to panic about. It is something to understand.
One of the headlines from the ESRI research is that around 7% of jobs in Ireland could be displaced in the short to medium term due to artificial intelligence.
That sounds significant, and it is important not to ignore it.
However, it is just as important to understand what that actually means.
This does not mean that 7% of people will suddenly lose their jobs. It refers to roles that are likely to change, reduce, or evolve over time as technology develops.
The report also makes a broader point that often gets lost in headlines. AI is more likely to reshape tasks within jobs rather than completely replace entire careers.
In simple terms, most jobs will still exist, but parts of those jobs will change.
We are already seeing this happen.
Administrative tasks are becoming more automated. Data can be analysed faster than ever. Technology is supporting decision making in ways that were not possible before.
But at the same time, the human side of work is becoming more important.
Communication, judgement, creativity and the ability to work with others are all increasing in value.
This is not about jobs disappearing. It is about jobs evolving.
From a guidance counsellor’s perspective, this reinforces something I say to students every year.
Choosing a CAO course is not about picking a job for life. It is about choosing a direction.
Students often feel pressure to choose a course that is “safe” or guaranteed. The reality is that no course can offer that guarantee anymore.
The ESRI report supports this. It shows that adaptability will be one of the most important strengths students can develop.
So instead of asking what job will still exist in ten years, a better question is what skills will still matter.
While technology is advancing quickly, there are certain skills that will continue to be in demand.
These include:
Courses that develop these skills will continue to open doors, even as industries change.
This is why broad degrees and flexible entry courses can be very strong options for students who are unsure.
It is also important to reassure students that many careers will continue to be in demand.
Areas such as healthcare, education, engineering, construction and technology will still need people. In many cases, demand in these areas is growing.
AI is likely to support these professions rather than replace them.
For example, a doctor may use AI to assist with diagnosis, but the human side of care will always be essential.
If you are filling out your CAO form and feeling unsure, you are not alone.
Every year I meet students who worry about making the wrong choice. The truth is, there is no perfect choice. There are good starting points.
The 7% figure in the ESRI report is not something to fear, but it is something to be aware of. It is a reminder that some roles will change and that flexibility will matter.
Most students today will have multiple careers over their lifetime. Your CAO course is simply the first step.
Artificial intelligence will shape the future of work, but it will not remove the need for people.
Students do not need to have everything figured out right now. What they do need is a willingness to learn, to adapt and to stay open to change.
That has always been the case.
It is just more obvious now.
