Professor Jay Siegel presented this perspective at the Future Fest Hanoi 2026 forum, organized by Phuong Dong University (UPD) in 4/2026.

During his presentation, he suggested that many students lack motivation not due to laziness, but because they are answering questions that are not their own. Meaningful education should foster personal curiosity and inquiry. In an era where information is abundant, the value of education lies in its ability to build a worldview, helping individuals understand who they are, what they need, and how to ask questions of themselves and society.

Professor Jay Siegel highlighted the distinction between "knowing" and "being". "Knowing a lot does not equate to becoming a capable and unique individual. Many students today confuse accumulating knowledge with the process of becoming a true person", the HKU Vice Rector stated.

Professor Jay Siegel, Vice Rector of Hong Kong University (HKU). Photo: UPD

He explained that "knowing" results from receiving information, while "being" demands internal cultivation and critical thinking. In a system that often evaluates based on scores and achievements, many students believe that performing well academically is sufficient. However, the core lies in the ability to self-question, imagine, communicate, and build conscious relationships with the world — a foundation for lifelong learning.

This challenge becomes even clearer with the deep integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into daily life, influencing how people work, communicate, and make decisions. However, Professor Jay Siegel believes that technology cannot define human lives. AI is merely a tool; it cannot replace the human capacity for choice, questioning, and forming meaningful relationships.

Students listening to Mr. Jay Siegel's presentation. Photo: UPD

In this context, the labor market no longer prioritizes individuals with extensive knowledge, but seeks those who can self-learn, adapt, and maintain independent thought. When knowledge is no longer an exclusive asset, the ability to verify, question, and take ownership will create long-term differentiation. He emphasized, "We use technology, but we must always question ourselves", and these questions need to originate from within each individual.

He cited Albert Einstein as an example. When asked, "How can I make my child more intelligent?", Einstein replied, "Read them fairy tales". If you want them to be even more intelligent? He said, "Read them more fairy tales".

Einstein's essential point was: Imagination is more important than knowledge. It is within imagination that new questions arise. "It is in the belief that you can create the future, create new things, that questions are born, where learning begins, and where education reaches its pinnacle", Professor Jay Siegel concluded.

Future Fest Hanoi, organized by Phuong Dong University (UPD), brought together more than 12,000 students and 120 speakers. Through in-depth discussion sessions, the event helped bridge the gap between theory and practice, offering clearer insights into the labor market.

Future Fest 2026 created an open space for students to gain career guidance information through the companionship of experts. Photo: UPD

Beyond the event, the program expanded into Future Fest Hub, a digital platform supporting learners in understanding themselves, their professions, and shaping their future. Here, students can access expert insights, grasp required competencies, and get a realistic view of various industries.

According to a representative from Phuong Dong University, this platform clarifies income trajectories, provides sample classroom experiences, and offers detailed information on more than 60 fields of study, making career orientation clearer and more practical. Additionally, Future Fest Hub acts as a connector, helping learners sustain their passion and continue participating in the ecosystem's activities.

"All of this aims to help learners become valuable versions of themselves with unique identities in the future", the university representative stated.

Yen Chi