Infosys founder Narayana Murthy on why he sees no difference between management and technology graduates

Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy has emphasized that management and technology graduates are equally valuable in an AI-driven world, arguing that both disciplines tackle problems at different but complementary levels rather than competing with each other. In his conversation with MoneyControl, the tech veteran dismissed any hierarchy between the two fields, stating that artificial intelligence creates opportunities for both streams of professionals. "I do not see any difference between a management graduate and a technology graduate because they attack the problem at different levels," Murthy explained. The 78-year-old industry pioneer outlined the distinct yet interconnected roles each group plays in organisational success. "One asks 'what,' while the other focuses on 'how.' Technical people look at 'how,' and the management graduates look at 'what,'" he clarified, highlighting how both perspectives are essential for comprehensive problem-solving. NR Narayana Murthy positioned AI as the great equalizer that enhances capabilities across disciplines rather than favoring one over another. "AI is primarily a technological marvel. It is all about improving productivity. It is all about solving problems that are beyond human effort," he noted, suggesting that both management and technical professionals can leverage AI to amplify their respective strengths. The Infosys founder expressed strong confidence in India's educational output, regardless of specialization. "So, both are needed. And given that these are some of the brightest people that we have in the country, I am very, very positive," Murthy stated, reflecting his belief that the country's talent pool spans across multiple disciplines. His comments come at a time when debates about the relative value of different educational backgrounds intensify amid rapid technological advancement, with Murthy's perspective offering a more inclusive view of professional competencies in the modern workplace.