Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the devaluation of intelligence and education in the context of AI transformation, suggesting that traditional educational qualifications may lose their value as AI becomes more prevalent in the workforce [4]. Group 1: Intelligence as a Service - The concept of "Intelligence as a Service" (IaaS) indicates that intelligence is no longer a privilege of human brains but can be accessed on demand, similar to utilities like electricity [6]. - AI's ability to perform tasks traditionally done by highly educated individuals leads to a significant devaluation of traditional educational qualifications, as knowledge becomes a common commodity [6][7]. - The demand for traditional white-collar jobs is declining, with a reported 22% decrease in positions that typically require higher education, particularly in finance, human resources, and administrative roles [7]. Group 2: Educational Inflation and Devaluation - In 2024, China's higher education gross enrollment rate reached 60.8%, with nearly 47 million students enrolled, indicating a saturation of the education market [10]. - The average starting salary for new graduates in first-tier cities is around 6,000 to 7,000 yuan, which is lower than many vocational roles, highlighting the "high investment, low return" phenomenon of education [11]. - The competition for higher education has intensified, with graduate school acceptance rates around 3.5:1 to 4:1, leading to an oversupply of graduates [12]. Group 3: Shifts in Employment Landscape - The trend of graduates from prestigious universities applying for lower-tier jobs reflects a shift in the value of education, where job stability and benefits are prioritized over traditional career paths [15][16]. - The increasing appeal of stable government jobs and lower-tier positions among elite graduates indicates a desire for job security in an uncertain economic environment [17]. - The phenomenon of highly educated individuals taking on low-skilled jobs illustrates the disconnect between educational qualifications and available high-value positions in the market [18]. Group 4: The Future of Education and Skills - The article posits that viewing education as a one-time investment is misguided; instead, it should be seen as a temporary ticket that requires continuous skill development beyond formal education [19]. - The rapid evolution of knowledge due to AI means that the shelf life of a degree has significantly shortened, with many skills becoming obsolete within 18 months [21]. - The focus should shift from what one knows to how one adapts to unknown situations, emphasizing the importance of practical skills over formal qualifications in the AI era [21].