Core Argument - The talk explores the unique value of humans in an era where thinking, creation, and even happiness can be outsourced or generated by technology [1] - It identifies the root cause of the crisis not as technology or human nature, but as a "design flaw" in the human-machine relationship [1] - A solution is proposed: a co-evolutionary path through better design and technology to reshape the human-machine relationship, making the best choices the only choices [1] Speaker & Affiliations - Hua Xiansheng is a top AI scientist and industry leader, serving as Executive Dean and Distinguished Professor at the Institute of Engineering Intelligence, Tongji University, and CTO of Terminus Group [1] - Hua Xiansheng previously held the position of Vice President at Alibaba Group [1] - He was selected for the National High-Level Talent Program, is an IEEE Fellow and ACM Distinguished Scientist [1] - He received the MIT "TR35" (Top 35 Innovators Under 35) award in 2008 [1] Research & Innovation - Hua Xiansheng has published over 300 papers and holds over 160 authorized patents [1] - He led the City Brain Lab at Alibaba DAMO Academy, applying AI to smart cities and healthcare [1] - His current research focuses on engineering intelligence, exploring the co-evolution of large-scale AI algorithms and humans [1] - He aims to promote the integration of AI with engineering fields such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, energy, and biomedicine [1]

Core Insights - The current demand for engineering talent in China is shifting from a "large and comprehensive" approach to a more specialized focus, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary and innovative skills in the era of artificial intelligence [1][2][3] - Over 80% of academic disciplines in Chinese universities are products of the first three industrial revolutions, leading to issues such as outdated curricula and a mismatch between educational outcomes and industry needs [1][2] - The Ministry of Education has initiated a reform plan aiming to optimize and adjust 20% of academic programs by 2025, resulting in a significant number of new and discontinued engineering programs [5][9] Group 1: Industry Needs and Educational Reform - The engineering education system in China is facing challenges due to the traditional emphasis on specialization, which limits the breadth of knowledge and innovation capabilities among graduates [1][2] - Universities are increasingly collaborating with government and industry to cultivate engineering talent, with many institutions reforming their academic structures to better align with market demands [3][5] - The establishment of new colleges and programs focused on artificial intelligence and interdisciplinary studies is becoming a trend among leading universities, such as Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Peking University [3][4] Group 2: Program Adjustments and Trends - Since the implementation of the reform plan, 3,229 new undergraduate programs have been established, while 2,534 programs have been discontinued, with engineering disciplines seeing the most significant changes [5][9] - The most added engineering programs include those related to artificial intelligence, smart construction, and renewable energy, reflecting a shift towards emerging technologies [9][10] - The focus on practical and innovative teaching methods, such as project-based learning and industry collaboration, is being emphasized to enhance students' problem-solving skills and engineering thinking [4][12]