The job market for fresh graduates in Hong Kong is a daunting prospect, with tens of thousands of young people struggling to find employment. The once predictable transition from university to career has now become a minefield of uncertainty, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI).
One graduate, Ivan Cheung, has filed over 200 job applications since March, hoping for a chance to secure a permanent role. While he is in a slightly better position than some of his peers, as he works part-time, the competition is fierce. Cheung notes that those who have found jobs consider themselves lucky, as the job market has become increasingly unpredictable.
What makes this situation particularly fascinating is the role of AI literacy. In Cheung's opinion, it is now essential to have AI literacy to secure a job. The ability to give AI specific and directed prompts to generate information that addresses business pain points is a valuable skill. This is especially true in a job market where AI is rapidly transforming industries and creating new opportunities and challenges.
However, the data science and analytics graduate also highlights the uncertainty and anxiety that many fresh graduates are facing. The job market is not just unpredictable; it is also highly competitive. With the number of job vacancies in Hong Kong in 2025 down by 55% over the previous year, graduates are feeling the pressure. This raises a deeper question: how can we prepare young people for a job market that is rapidly changing and becoming increasingly reliant on AI?
From my perspective, the answer lies in a combination of education and practical experience. Universities need to adapt their curricula to reflect the changing demands of the job market, and graduates need to be prepared to learn new skills and adapt to new technologies. At the same time, businesses need to invest in training and development to ensure that they can harness the power of AI while also providing opportunities for young people to gain practical experience.
One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of soft skills. While technical skills are essential, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are also highly valued by employers. What many people don't realize is that these skills are often more difficult to teach and learn than technical skills, and yet they are just as important for success in the workplace. If you take a step back and think about it, it becomes clear that the job market is not just about technical skills; it is also about the ability to work effectively with others and solve problems in a rapidly changing environment.
In conclusion, the job market for fresh graduates in Hong Kong is a complex and challenging landscape. While AI literacy is an essential skill, it is not the only one that matters. Soft skills, practical experience, and a willingness to learn and adapt are also crucial. As we look to the future, it is clear that we need to invest in education and training to prepare young people for the job market of tomorrow. This is not just a challenge for Hong Kong; it is a challenge for the entire world as we navigate the rapid changes brought about by technology and automation.
