{
  "id": 9649764,
  "title": "Outfoxing artificial intelligence: The great human-AI face-off",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/outfoxing-artificial-intelligence-the-great-human-ai-face-off-9649764",
  "topic": "ai",
  "section": "AI",
  "published": "2026-09-24T23:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Business Times - Singapore",
    "slug": "the-business-times-singapore",
    "url": "https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/bt50/outfoxing-artificial-intelligence-great-human-ai-face"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In a rapidly evolving economy powered by technology, the pursuit of academic excellence alone is no longer sufficient. Artificial intelligence, a formidable adversary, learns continuously, adapts swiftly, and infiltrates industries thought to be immune. The instinct is to surpass AI in speed and intellect. However, this pursuit is misguided, especially for educators. Educators must recognize that we cannot outpace AI nor anticipate all the skills students will require throughout a 50-year career. Industries evolve at a pace surpassing university curricula; by graduation, students may already be out of touch with some of their studies.\n\nThe concept of a face-off between human intelligence and AI is misleading. Instead, human intelligence and AI co-evolve within technology. The challenge lies in creating structured and secure learning pathways that enable individuals to thrive in a technology-driven economy, where AI is the dominant force. Key insights include:\n\n1. Rethinking higher education: Universities must reconsider the delivery of higher education and differentiate between the mastery of knowledge, skills, and creation. The importance of knowledge mastery is called into question, as AI can provide detailed, well-researched information instantaneously.\n\n2. Focusing on application: Rather than attempting to cover everything, courses could emphasize how students utilize knowledge to create value. For instance, computer science students might devote less time to memorizing syntax and more on constructing systems using AI tools, verifying outcomes, and resolving issues. Engineering courses might transition from standardized problem sets to open-ended design work, where students identify problems, test concepts, and address trade-offs.\n\n3. Application-centric learning: In architecture and sustainable design, students could transition from studying precedents to prototyping solutions, testing them in real contexts, and refining them based on feedback. The emphasis shifts from studying references to creating practical applications, testing them in real contexts, and enhancing them through iterative feedback.\n\n4. Adaptability and \"bilingualism\": Students should not aspire to \"know everything\" before applying their skills. Instead, they should develop skills to work effectively with AI to find solutions rapidly, becoming \"bilinguals\" able to deploy AI in enterprises or \"trilinguals\" who incorporate a critical design perspective in deployment. This includes framing better human-oriented questions, integrating systems more effectively, and reimagining business models.\n\n5. Lifelong learning: Continuous learning is no longer an option; it is a necessity. Postgraduate studies should focus on innovation beyond traditional research or coursework, utilizing trilingual abilities (knowledge, AI skills, and critical design perspective) to address real-world challenges. Industry collaborations can help create practical value for users even before completing advanced qualifications. The same applies to Continuing Education and Training (CET) learners. The goal is to bring implementation-ready solutions tailored to organizational needs swiftly, not by trying to outsmart AI but by partnering with it.\n\n6. Overcoming resistance: For those already in the workforce, a significant mindset shift is required to accept and adapt to new technology. However, contrary to common assumptions, mature workers are not inherently resistant to technology. They become increasingly receptive once they understand its practical applications in their work. SUTD's research with the National Trades Union Congress found that mature workers were not inherently resistant to new technology. Instead, they become more open once they can see its value in their work.",
  "summary": "In an emerging economy underpinned by tech, the age-old pursuit of academic mastery is no longer enough",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Business Times - Companies & Markets",
        "title": "Outfoxing artificial intelligence: The great human-AI face-off",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/outfoxing-artificial-intelligence-the-great-human-ai-face-off",
        "published": "2026-09-24T23:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}