Abstract

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and advanced language technology is rapidly transforming the value, scope, and expectations of English language proficiency in global job markets. This shift produces both anxiety and opportunity for learners and professionals. This book chapter explores empirical research on the employability threat confronting English language users, details the evolving requirements for language proficiency, examines anxiety among new graduates, and outlines institutional and pedagogical responses to ensure relevance in the AI era (Wen et al. 55).