On the other hand, just because one can take higher education in English, it does not mean that one is suitable for chemistry discussions conducted in English medium. Rather, someone with a background in chemistry, who knows a fair amount of English, would be considered more suitable for the job. Similarly, if someone is a computer scientist or a software engineer, he does not become suitable for other work fields just by seeing the use of programming, but if someone with knowledge in the related field can master programming, he will be considered suitable.
Another question, if someone doesn't like to learn programming, does he need to be forced? The short answer is, no need. If someone doesn't like to learn music, if they don't like to draw pictures, how much can it be forced? Programming is just one of many types of co-curricular activities. Each child will enjoy different activities. Some may like to solve puzzles, some may like to do math, some may like to learn a hands-on task, some may like to debate, some may want to participate in scouts. It may be that programming is not fun now, but learned when needed for future work.
Therefore, not knowing programming does not mean falling behind the present, there is no reason to feel 'fear of missing out'. Nvidia's CEO recently said, 'Programming is no longer an important skill. Artificial intelligence will do much of the coding. People could rather focus on more important things like biology, education, manufacturing or agriculture.'
● Dr. BM Mainul Hossain Professor and Director of Institute of Information Technology, University of Dhaka
