#Adultlearning

Universities across the globe must redefine their purpose to prioritize lifelong learning in an era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), according to the president of Northeastern University, who warns that higher education risks becoming obsolete if it fails to adapt. Speaking during a keynote address at the event “Engineering the Future with Artificial Intelligence,” held at Saint Joseph University in Beirut, the Northeastern University president emphasized the urgent need for higher education to extend its focus beyond young students, highlighting the transformative impact of AI on both learning and society.

A global shift toward lifelong learning is essential as artificial intelligence reshapes work and education. A Northeastern University president urged universities to redefine their mission during a Beirut keynote, warning that higher education risks obsolescence without adapting to AI’s rapid advancements. The message emphasizes extending learning beyond traditional students to adults and mid-career professionals.

Traditionally, universities focused on educating new generations and pursuing research. Now, AI’s expanding role demands continuous, adaptive learning models aligned with both employer needs and individual goals. The Northeastern leader, author of Robot-Proof: Higher Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, argues for programs that fit busy adult lives and deliver fast, practical outcomes.

Artificial intelligence is driving a dramatic transformation in higher education, pushing universities worldwide to shift beyond their traditional focus on young students and research to embrace lifelong learning for all. The latest research and expert commentary, highlighted by a keynote address from the president of Northeastern University, underscores a global pivot—one that is increasingly relevant for Thailand’s rapidly evolving educational landscape (Northeastern University; Forward Pathway). Amid the rise of generative AI and large language models such as ChatGPT, higher education institutions face mounting pressure to adapt, or risk obsolescence.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education, pushing universities to move beyond traditional programs for young students. The latest research and expert insights highlight a global shift toward lifelong learning that includes adult and mid-career learners. This momentum matters for Thailand as the country accelerates digital economy initiatives and workforce upskilling.

Leaders in higher education argue that the workforce now requires flexible, modular, and experiential learning. University presidents emphasize the need to customize offerings to employer needs while tailoring learning paths to individuals. The aim is to build a system that supports continuous education throughout a person’s career, rather than a single-degree model. International think tanks and higher-education groups echo this call, urging institutions to adopt flexible formats that align with today’s unpredictable career trajectories.