American billionaire and Shark Tank investor Mark Cuban has shared a crucial perspective on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern education. While acknowledging its pervasive use, he cautions students against excessive reliance on the technology.
AI as a Tool for Enhancement, Not a Crutch
Cuban observed that students today frequently use AI to find the "right questions." However, he strongly advises that they should not depend too much on it. The key, according to him, is to leverage AI to enhance their own critical-thinking skills, rather than letting the technology replace them entirely.
He elaborated that students should use strong inputs and then apply their judgment to evaluate the results generated by AI. "AI helps students think bigger, but it doesn't make decisions," Cuban stated. In a previous interview with CNBC's Make It, he went further, suggesting that tomorrow's leaders might be today's AI-obsessed children.
"Students who use AI will produce better, more creative work and gain a collaborative relationship with technology that's needed in the future workplace," he said, adding decisively: "Students who use AI will be best equipped to lead."
The Biggest Barrier: Access and Ethical Use
During discussions, Cuban pinpointed the primary obstacle for effective AI learning in schools. "Access is the biggest barrier" to teaching students how to use AI tools both effectively and ethically, he asserted.
This concern is echoed in the broader educational landscape. For instance, Samsung's Solve for Tomorrow 2025 AI Readiness Study found that 80% of US teachers believe learning AI skills is vital for future student success. Yet, educators also worry about potential misuse, such as cheating, and the risk of AI models spreading misinformation through errors.
Cuban, however, remains firm on the need for proper education. He has compared the current AI surge to past technological revolutions like the advent of computers and the internet. His consistent advice to students is clear: "Spend as much time as possible familiarizing yourself with the latest AI tools and models, so you can impress future employers with your up-to-date prompt engineering and model customization skills."
AI Skills: The Future Job Imperative
Mark Cuban's vision extends beyond the classroom into the corporate world. Speaking on the "TBPN" podcast in 2025, he highlighted the universal demand for AI integration skills. "Every single company needs that. There is nothing intuitive for a company to integrate AI, and that's what people don't understand. That is going to be jobs left and right," he explained.
His comments paint a future where proficiency in using and customizing AI will not just be an advantage but a fundamental requirement for leadership and employability. The message for Indian students and professionals is to engage with AI proactively and thoughtfully, building a collaborative partnership with technology that prioritizes human critical thinking above all.
