Is AI a skillset for current MBA graduates? Recent survey says otherwise

While Artificial Intelligence takes over the global job market, the impact of the evolving technology is yet to hit the MBA job pool. The latest Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) Corporate Recruiters Survey has revealed that while AI is not yet a critical skill for current graduates, its importance is expected to skyrocket in the coming years, reported ToI. Currently, AI remains second-to-last among 22 skills surveyed.

As the world navigates through economic uncertainties, there is rise in confidence of employers when it comes to graduate management education (GME) since the pandemic. This confidence spans key sectors such as consulting, finance, accounting and technology.

A notable 33% of recruiters plan to hire more MBA graduates in 2024 compared to last year, reflecting a growing appreciation for the skills these graduates bring to the table.


The report provides a comprehensive overview of how employers perceive current and future significance of AI skills in their organisations, highlighting regional and industry-specific variations.

AI yet to gain momentum in MBA?
As per the sruvey, Artificial intelligence is defined as the ability to leverage AI technologies and platforms for data analysis, predictions and process automation. The said skill-set is currently considered important by only 26% of global employers for GME graduates.

While AI remains an optional skill for MBA graduated, this outlook is set to change dramatically, with many employers predicting a significant rise in the importance of AI skills over the next five years.

Interest in AI skills varies widely by region and industry. Employers in Central and South Asia show the highest current interest at 49 per cent, with similarly high interest levels in Africa.

This is stark contrast to the West where only 13 per cent of employers in US currently see AI skills as crucial. The technology sector and Fortune 100 companies are particularly likely to value AI skills, with 36% and 34% of respondents respectively indicating its importance.

Employers from the technology industry and regions like Western Europe foresee AI skills becoming one of the top three most important skills in the next five years.

“As disruptive technologies like generative AI reshape the labour market, employers are prioritising strategic thinking, people leadership, and problem-solving, while also recognising the rising importance of tech prowess. Future business leaders must harness technological advancements and manage the changes they bring," said GMAC CEO Joy Jones.

What is behind increased confidence in graduates?
Renewed confidence of employers in GME is linked to the performance of business school graduates, who tend to outperform other employees, fast-track to upper-level positions, and earn higher salaries.

Interestingly, the confidence in GME extends to remote work management skills, with about two-thirds of employers acknowledging the increased importance of GME in today’s remote and hybrid working environment. The GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, conducted from January to March 2024, included 931 corporate recruiters and hiring managers from 38 countries.

(with ToI inputs)