Next-Gen Developers: Rethinking Software Engineering Education in the Age of Generative AI

The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping software engineering practices and redefining the skills required of modern developers. AI-powered tools now assist in code generation, debugging, documentation, and system design, affecting both industry workflows and educational approaches. This study conducts a systematic literature review of 18 scholarly publications using the PRISMA framework to explore the integration of GenAI in software development and software engineering education. Four key themes emerged: transformation of development practices, integration of AI in programming education, ethical and governance considerations, and workforce skill evolution. Findings highlight productivity gains and opportunities for outcome-based learning but reveal challenges in curriculum design, ethical AI use, and developing foundational programming and critical thinking skills, emphasizing the need for adaptive AI-integrated education.