Core Viewpoint - The closure of the Monterey Institute of International Studies (MIIS) highlights the significant impact of AI on the translation industry, prompting a structural transformation among translation professionals and educational institutions [4][12]. Group 1: Impact of AI on the Translation Industry - The MIIS, known as the "Harvard of Translation," will cease its offline graduate programs by summer 2027 due to financial and structural issues, exacerbated by a sharp decline in enrollment and the growing influence of AI [4][6]. - The adoption rate of Machine Translation Post-Editing (MTPE) has surged from 26% in 2022 to nearly 46% in 2024, indicating a shift towards AI-assisted translation methods [6][7]. - The cost and time efficiency of MTPE is evident, with translation costs dropping from over 200,000 yuan for pure human translation to approximately 120,000-150,000 yuan with MTPE, significantly reducing turnaround time [7]. Group 2: Responses from Translation Professionals - Many translation professionals are experiencing reduced income due to AI's encroachment, with reports indicating that over one-third of translators have lost jobs due to generative AI, and 14% have seen a decrease in income [11]. - The trend shows a clear shift towards embracing technology, with educational institutions like Shanghai International Studies University introducing dual degree programs that combine translation with business management and AI [13]. - The demand for hybrid talents who can navigate both translation and technology is increasing, as evidenced by 80% of leading translation companies deploying generative AI tools [13]. Group 3: Future of Translation - While AI excels in efficiency, many professionals believe that human translators will still be needed for nuanced and culturally sensitive translations, particularly in creative fields like gaming [15][16]. - The importance of human qualities such as emotional intelligence, cultural understanding, and critical thinking in translation work is emphasized, suggesting that AI cannot fully replace human translators [16][17]. - The stories of students and professionals illustrate a dual narrative: those facing uncertainty due to industry changes and those who have successfully adapted to new roles that leverage technology [8][17].

Core Viewpoint - The Monterey Institute of International Studies (MIIS), a leading translation school, announced the closure of its on-campus graduate programs by summer 2027, attributing the decision to financial and structural issues, with a significant impact from the rise of AI in the translation industry [1][2]. Industry Impact - The translation industry is undergoing a profound structural transformation due to AI, with many professionals feeling the pressure to adapt or risk being left behind [1][4]. - The adoption rate of Machine Translation Post-Editing (MTPE) has surged from 26% in 2022 to nearly 46% in 2024, indicating a shift towards technology-driven translation methods [2]. Financial Implications - The cost of translation using MTPE is significantly lower than pure human translation, with estimates showing a reduction from over 200,000 yuan for 100,000 words to between 120,000 and 150,000 yuan, while the turnaround time decreases from one month to about two weeks [3]. Educational Adaptation - Educational institutions are responding to industry changes by introducing new programs that integrate technology, such as dual degree programs in translation and computer science [6]. - The demand for professionals skilled in AI translation tools is increasing, with 80% of top translation companies already deploying generative AI tools [6]. Job Market Trends - A survey by the UK Writers' Association revealed that over one-third of translators have lost jobs due to AI advancements, with more than 14% reporting reduced income [5]. - Companies are increasingly valuing candidates' technical skills and adaptability over traditional language qualifications in the hiring process [6]. Quality and Creativity Concerns - Despite the efficiency of AI, many industry professionals express concerns about the loss of nuanced translation quality, particularly in creative contexts where human translators excel [7][9]. - The unique qualities of human translators, such as emotional depth and cultural understanding, remain irreplaceable in certain translation tasks [9][10].