Cost-effective transformation

The boom in AI training reflects the evolving needs of enterprises and individuals, said Cao Zhongxiong, director of the department of digital economy and global strategy at the China Development Institute, a Shenzhen-based think tank.

"Previously, such enterprise-oriented training primarily focused on financial planning or process management, rarely emphasizing the adoption of new technologies.

"But AI tools like DeepSeek enable cost-effective digital transformation of businesses, driving enterprises to place unprecedented importance on technology integration," he said.

As various specialized AI models are being rapidly implemented across industries, their transition to market use is often challenging. AI training serves as a quick means to help enterprises understand and master these emerging technologies.

And with the development of the new economy, an increasing number of individuals are leveraging technologies to seek career changes or empower their businesses. This has also led to a growing demand for AI knowledge, Cao said.

As Shenzhen intensifies its efforts in technological development amid growing competition, measures to facilitate innovation such as AI training are vital for advancing human resources, he said.

With AI proliferating across industries and public awareness of mastering technology growing, Cao believes the demand for AI training will keep rising.

He encouraged greater involvement from industry giants like Huawei and Tencent in the training efforts, urging them to better guide their supply chain partners in mastering flagship AI-driven products, such as the Hunyuan large language model and Harmony OS.

"The learning of AI must be integrated into core business operations of leading companies that are at the forefront of future technological transformations," he said.

In the past, job training aimed to provide certificates and predictable career growth, but people learning AI are exploring new career directions such as starting their own businesses or transitioning to other industries, he added.

Zhu Chaoqun's experience exemplifies this shift. The 42-year-old used to work as an information technology director at a well-known company.

The rapid change in the industry often made him anxious about losing his job.

The turning point came when Zhu noticed the possibility of becoming an AI tutor after taking AI training courses. His familiarity with IT knowledge made the job transformation easier.

Now, a part-time AI tutor at Shuibei Night School, Zhu said the job "not only allows me to achieve a career transformation, but its flexible schedule enables me to balance work and life better".

"Now, I no longer feel anxious about my career. Instead, I am filled with anticipation for the future," he said.

Contact the writers at sally@chinadailyhk.com