Reading Passage 1.3: Automation and the Future of Jobs
Instructions: Read the passage and answer the questions below.
Paragraph A
In 2023, a restaurant in Tokyo gained attention for using robotic arms to prepare bowls of ramen, from cooking noodles to adding toppings. The machines, developed by a Japanese company called Connected Robotics, worked quickly and precisely—without taking breaks or calling in sick. The restaurant, located in the busy district of Shibuya, became a symbol of how rapidly automation is entering everyday life. It was a glimpse into a future that many experts say is already arriving: a world where robots and AI play a major role in the economy.
Paragraph B
A widely cited statistic from the World Economic Forum estimates that 65% of children entering primary school today will work in jobs that do not currently exist. This projection highlights both the speed of technological change and the uncertainty surrounding the future of employment. As artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and automation technologies continue to advance, industries across the globe are being reshaped.
Paragraph C
Some of the most at-risk occupations are those involving routine and repetitive tasks. Factory workers, data entry clerks, and even some types of customer service roles are increasingly being automated. For example, call centers are adopting AI-powered chatbots that can handle thousands of inquiries simultaneously. In agriculture, self-driving tractors are already being used to plow fields and monitor crops with minimal human involvement. Furthermore, even traditionally “safe” white-collar jobs such as auditing financial data or drafting legal documents are being affected.
Paragraph D
However, not all jobs face the same level of risk. Roles that require creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving are far more difficult to automate. Professions such as teaching, healthcare, and design are expected to remain largely human for the foreseeable future. For instance, nurses and therapists provide care that requires human empathy and nuanced understanding, qualities that AI currently struggles to replicate. Similarly, architects and designers rely on a creative process that cannot easily be broken down into code.
Paragraph E
Rather than eliminating all jobs, automation is expected to transform the nature of work. According to a 2022 report by McKinsey Global Institute, while up to 375 million workers worldwide may need to switch occupations by 2030, many new roles will also be created. These new jobs will likely focus on managing and maintaining automated systems, developing new technologies, and providing personalized services that complement machine capabilities. In the healthcare sector, for example, AI tools may assist doctors by analyzing medical data, but the patient experience will still depend on human connection.
Paragraph F
The rapid advancement of automation requires proactive strategies from governments, businesses, and individuals. Governments can invest in education and training programs to equip workers with the skills needed for the jobs of the future. Businesses can focus on creating a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging employees to adapt to new technologies. Individuals must embrace continuous learning, seeking opportunities to upgrade their skills and explore new career paths.
Paragraph G
Moreover, ethical considerations must guide the development and deployment of automation technologies. Ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in automated systems is essential to prevent bias and protect workers’ rights. Open dialogue among stakeholders—including policymakers, researchers, and the public—is needed to navigate the complex ethical challenges posed by automation.