As the world races towards rapid digitalisation, artificial intelligence and computer science courses seem to be capturing the imagination of the new generation of students. Universities across India – and indeed globally – are witnessing a shift in enrolment trends, with prospective engineers opting for AI, machine learning, data science and related branches over traditional disciplines like mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering. Startups and tech conglomerates beckon them with promises of quick career progression and lucrative financial rewards. Yet, leading academics and education experts warn that focusing on AI-related fields risks overlooking the essential pillars of engineering, which remain as relevant today as ever.
Hiralal Pramanik, professor in the department of chemical engineering at IIT BHU since 2005, says the move away from core engineering subjects is a clear trend. “Many of our students are motivated towards AI, machine learning, or fintech,” he says. “But we encourage them to remain in the core areas. Core chemical engineering, for example, is fundamental to manufacturing industries from fertilisers and polymers to dyes and paints. Without chemical engineers, we cannot imagine our daily lives at all.”
Abhinanda Sarkar, academic director at Great Learning, notes that while AI continues to permeate practically every sector, the real-world challenges we face – such as developing electric vehicles, exploring renewable energy, and designing more efficient systems – rely heavily on foundational engineering knowledge.
“Engineering in its essence transcends specific disciplines like computer science or AI. These new technologies play an increasingly significant role, but it is the foundational engineering principles, learned through core subjects, that enable advancements in areas like electric vehicle design, energy grids, and space exploration.”

Indeed, the rise of

AI in engineering

has not rendered core engineering obsolete. Quite the contrary: AI can be a powerful tool that complements and enhances the efficacy of traditional engineering processes. “We are showing our students how to connect chemical engineering with AI and machine learning. The fundamentals of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and transport phenomena are indispensable. Once they master these basics, they can integrate AI to solve complex problems more efficiently,” says Pramanik.
Student misconception
The shift in student preferences often stems from misconceptions about future career prospects. There is a belief that software roles, supported by AI expertise, automatically guarantee higher salaries and faster career progression. While the demand for AI-related skill sets is undoubtedly growing, these skills are often inadequate in the absence of domain knowledge. Oil and gas giants, pharmaceutical companies, materials research laboratories, and semiconductor manufacturing facilities all require skilled chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineers, often well-versed in AI but fundamentally anchored in their core domains.
“A strong background in chemical engineering can make you a better techie,” Pramanik says. “Many students do not realise that the petroleum industry, for instance, pays extremely well, and the work is deeply challenging and meaningful. Firms like HPCL and Reliance depend on chemical engineers to manage processes from refining to polymer synthesis. If you combine that expertise with AI-driven data analysis, you become invaluable in the modern workforce.”
The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in India acknowledges this growing need for multidisciplinary learning. It allows students to take on multiple majors, meaning an individual enrolled in chemical engineering can also study computer science modules simultaneously, and vice versa. “We tell students there is no need to feel restricted,” Pramanik says. “You can major in chemical engineering while also learning AI. That combination is potent – 80% in your core subject, 20% from another domain – and you can deliver better solutions in any industry.”
This dual approach to education is, according to Sarkar, the best way forward. “Digital tools such as CAD and simulation software have brought a wave of digitalisation to almost all fields of engineering, including chemical, mechanical, and electrical. AI can further accelerate innovation. But no algorithm can replace the essential knowledge of fluid dynamics, reaction kinetics, or structural integrity. AI can enhance these skills, not substitute them.”
One challenge is how best to encourage students to keep one foot firmly planted in core engineering. Both Pramanik and Sarkar say that better awareness of realworld applications is key. Students need to see the vast role chemical engineering – and other foundational branches – plays in the industries they interact with daily. From pharmaceuticals to semiconductors, from advanced materials to biodegradable plastics, chemical engineers are at the forefront of innovation that matters to every consumer.