Introduction
“There’s no need for young learners to learn programming because AI will take all the tech jobs in the future.”
It’s a sentence you may have heard more frequently over the past few years, especially with the rise of powerful AI tools such as Sora and GitHub Copilot.
With ChatGPT alone generating a staggering 800 million weekly uses, it’s clear that artificial intelligence has already become deeply woven into our daily lives. From automating everyday tasks to transforming entire industries, AI’s presence is impossible to ignore. And with experts predicting it could displace up to 92 million jobs worldwide, it’s no surprise that many are beginning to question the future relevance of learning programming.
However, instead of fearing these inevitable changes in technology, we should shift our focus to preparing future developers to adapt. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, AI is also projected to create around 170 million new roles. It is more important than ever for young people to learn coding skills.
This is exactly where early tech education can play a crucial role in helping your child stay ahead in these fast-evolving times.
AI Won’t Replace Developers, It Will Assist Them
AI is not here to replace developers; it’s here to enhance what they can do. As technology evolves, there will be a higher demand for specialized roles that combine programming, data analysis, and ethical thinking.
Learning a language like Python is becoming essential for future tech careers. Over 90% of data science professionals use Python, and by 2027, the World Economic Forum predicts that another 1.4 million data-related roles will be created globally. We’ll need both developers and data scientists who can build, train, and guide these AI systems responsibly.
It’s also worth remembering that AI is still in its infancy. While tools like ChatGPT are incredibly advanced, their information isn’t always 100% accurate (something many of us forget!). This inaccuracy can have real world consequences, especially if AI-generated content is used in ways that can impact the public.
That’s why human intervention is and always will be essential. Future developers must work together with AI to identify and mitigate biases, inaccuracies, and ethical challenges. To do that effectively, the skills we teach young people today need to evolve beyond traditional subjects. Our young people need to understand how technology works, why it behaves the way it does and challenge if the generated content is ethical to use.
Why Learning Programming Early Matters
Learning programming skills such as Python from an early age doesn’t just prepare students for future jobs, it also helps them build problem-solving skills, curiosity, and the ability to question things. These are skills we as a society should aim to inspire in students so they can become well-rounded, thoughtful individuals whether or not they choose a career in tech.
Even outside traditional tech roles, AI is becoming part of everyday work. The World Economic Forum predicts that 54% of jobs will be “moderately” transformed by generative AI. This means that future generations will encounter AI tools in a wide range of fields from medicine and design to marketing and education. Having a solid understanding of the pros, cons, and even the technical workings of AI will help young people adapt confidently and responsibly in the workplace.
The Importance of Core Programming Skills, and Where TCC Comes In
At TCC, we’re equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven world. Our approach focuses on:
- Fundamental programming skills — helping students understand how AI tools are built, not just how to use them.
- Creative and critical thinking — encouraging students to question technology, think ethically, and innovate with purpose as have fun doing so! We want students to learn through creating games and making their personal projects/ideas come to life.
- Confidence with digital tools — starting students from the basics, building up those digital literacy skills and teaching students to see AI as a helpful partner rather than something to fear or rely on blindly.
This early exposure to technology builds curiosity, confidence, and career readiness. AI can’t replicate human empathy, creativity, or moral reasoning but students who understand these strengths can help fill these important gaps in technology.
The goal isn’t to compete with AI. It’s to create the next generation of developers and technology specialists who understand how to build these AI tools in a responsible way.