Artificial intelligence and the development of soft skills for employability: A student-centered investigation

The growing implementation of AI in educational settings has significantly influenced the competencies that students need to be employed within the 21st century. While AI is helping with the development of technical skills and analytical competencies, soft skills, including communication, adaptability, collaboration and critical thinking are still required for lifelong career success. This paper examines the attitudes of university students towards the role of AI in fostering soft skills as pertaining to employability. A structured questionnaire was administered to Moroccan university students in business management and law programs to explore their awareness, use, and attitudes toward AI-supported learning tools. Results indicate that students recognize that AI can support the development of cognitive and personal soft skills, but express doubt concerning its effectiveness in fostering interpersonal and emotional capabilities. The findings also emphasize the necessity for a pedagogically supported integration of AI which is guided by human interaction and ethical reflection. AI may complement but not substitute human teaching when it comes to employability-centered soft skills development, according to the study.