Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming every facet of modern life — from how we work to how we learn and interact. In the middle of this rapid evolution stands Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, a leading figure in AI innovation. In a recent conversation, Hassabis issued a strong and urgent message to the youngest generation: adapt to AI now or risk being left behind.

As AI technologies like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini continue to advance, the global workforce is poised for major disruption. Hassabis believes that within five to ten years, AI will significantly alter the job market. His advice? Teenagers must embrace coding, develop adaptable thinking, and immerse themselves in AI now to secure their future in a tech-driven world.

AI Will Disrupt the Job Market — But Also Create New Opportunities

Speaking on the Hard Fork podcast, Hassabis highlighted how every major technological shift in history has reshaped employment. Just as the internet redefined careers for Millennials and smartphones influenced Gen Z’s lifestyle, generative AI is now set to shape Gen Alpha’s destiny.

“Over the next 5 to 10 years, we’re going to see AI disrupt existing jobs,” Hassabis said. “But it will also create newer, often more meaningful roles — many of which don’t yet exist.” His message underscores a key trend in the AI age: while automation may eliminate some jobs, it will also unlock industries and careers unimaginable today.

Urging Teens to Become AI “Ninjas”

To survive and thrive in this landscape, Hassabis urges young people to start learning about AI early. He calls on teens and students to become “AI ninjas” — individuals who are not just technically skilled but also mentally agile.

“Learn how AI tools work. Experiment with them. See what you can build. Learn to learn — that’s the superpower of the future,” he explained. With tools like ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, and Google’s Gemini becoming widely accessible, students have more opportunities than ever to immerse themselves in AI.

The Need for Strong STEM and Meta Skills

While Hassabis emphasized coding and STEM education, he also noted that technical proficiency alone won’t be enough. Future-ready students need to cultivate what he calls “meta skills” — attributes like creativity, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and resilience.

“These are the skills that machines can’t replicate easily,” he said. “Yes, learn coding and AI models. But just as importantly, develop the ability to adapt and think critically. That’s what will make you indispensable.”

Advice for University Students: Experiment Beyond the Classroom

Hassabis encourages university students to treat their academic years as a time for exploration and self-awareness. “Use this time to understand how you learn. Explore emerging fields and technologies beyond what’s taught in lectures,” he advised.

He explained that many hard skills become outdated quickly, especially in a world where AI tools can perform tasks more efficiently. Therefore, cognitive agility — the ability to learn quickly and shift focus when needed — will be the most valuable asset in the age of AI.

A Call to Action for Gen Alpha

The rise of generative AI has already reshaped industries from software development and education to healthcare and media. And with AI models inching closer to artificial general intelligence (AGI), Hassabis’s call to action grows more urgent.

He made it clear: AI isn’t some distant future — it’s already here. And those who understand and use it effectively today will become tomorrow’s leaders. Gen Alpha, in particular, must begin building their digital fluency and mindset early, or risk being overwhelmed by the pace of innovation.

Conclusion

Demis Hassabis’s warning is not just a prediction — it’s a roadmap. The next generation must equip themselves with both technical skills and adaptive thinking to navigate an AI-driven world. With job roles evolving faster than ever, teens and students must treat AI literacy as a core life skill.

The message is clear: the future belongs to those who embrace change. And in the age of AI, learning to learn is the ultimate advantage.