In an era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries and redefining the future of work, the need to cultivate uniquely human skills has never been more critical. Recognizing this, the Women Empowerment Cell of Sri Manakula Vinayagar Engineering College (SMVEC) organized a thought-provoking and empowering session titled “Essential Human Skills for Thriving in the AI-Driven Future” on 3rd July 2025 in the college auditorium.
The session featured two accomplished resource persons:
- Mrs. Lakshmipriya Vinothkumar, Founder of Take Your Flight, Puducherry
- Dr. A. Bharathy, Chairwoman of CII – Indian Women Network (IWN), Puducherry
Both speakers brought with them a wealth of knowledge, experience, and real-world perspectives, making the event not only informative but deeply inspiring for all attendees.
Emphasizing the Human Edge in a Digital Age:
Mrs. Lakshmipriya Vinothkumar set the tone with an engaging talk on how soft skills—such as emotional intelligence, creativity, adaptability, and critical thinking—are becoming increasingly valuable in an age dominated by machines and automation. She encouraged students to embrace change, build resilience, and cultivate a growth mindset in order to remain relevant and thrive in the evolving professional landscape.
Dr. A. Bharathy, drawing from her leadership role and industry experience, spoke about the intersection of technology and humanity. She stressed that while AI can automate tasks, it cannot replace the empathy, leadership, ethical judgment, and interpersonal connection that only humans can offer. She also discussed the importance of networking, communication, and collaboration as key skills for the future workforce.
A Platform for Empowerment and Reflection
The session was more than just a lecture—it became a platform for meaningful dialogue and self-reflection. Students actively participated in the Q&A segment, sharing their thoughts and asking insightful questions about the future of jobs, the role of women in tech, and how to prepare themselves for an uncertain but opportunity-filled future.
Interactive Doubt-Clearing Session Inspires Confidence Among Students
After the keynote addresses by Mrs. Lakshmipriya Vinothkumar and Dr. A. Bharathy, the session opened the floor for questions. Students eagerly seized this opportunity to seek guidance, clarify their doubts, and voice their thoughts about navigating the challenges of an AI-influenced world.
From questions about how to future-proof their careers, to queries on work-life balance, soft skill development, and the importance of emotional intelligence—students expressed a genuine curiosity and readiness to learn. The speakers responded with warmth and clarity, sharing real-life examples and actionable advice that resonated deeply with the audience.
Conclusion
The session on “Essential Human Skills for Thriving in the AI-Driven Future” was not just an educational experience—it was a transformative one. By combining expert insights with meaningful student interaction, the Women Empowerment Cell of SMVEC successfully created a platform that encouraged curiosity, built confidence, and highlighted the importance of developing human-centric skills in a technology-driven world.
