Examining the role of AI in the future of work: A case study of university students in Pakistan

As generative AI and digital technologies powered by AI continue to take over jobs around the world, what does this mean for underdeveloped countries? Pakistan has roughly 63% of its population that is considered youth. Graduates going without jobs have been an ongoing problem in Pakistan. Many studies have been conducted internationally when it comes to AI and its effect on the future of work. But there have not been many qualitative studies that focus on Pakistan's higher education system. This study aimed to explore how university students perceive that AI will affect the future of work. Using a qualitative inductive approach, a self-administered qualitative open-ended questionnaire was used. Three public higher education institutions were chosen (University A, B and C; N = 77). NVivo 14 was utilised to perform content and thematic analysis. Themes that were found include: the labour force being altered by AI; hopes and fears of students' career paths in the future. Additionally, the study provides insight into how the workplace may be shaped by the collaboration between employees and AI. The findings from this study inform policymakers and businesses regarding the impact of AI on curriculum development, improved digital infrastructure and job security. The scope of this study will only look at graduate students who are finishing their bachelor's in social sciences from 3 different public universities located in urban areas of Pakistan. It can serve as a basis for further qualitative research but not broad predictions on economic aspects.