Brain drain has accelerated in Pakistan over the past few years as young people leave the country after being dejected due to economic situation, lack of job prospects and rising prices. According to official data, more than 832,000 Pakistanis, including 400,000 high-skilled workers, left the country this year for greener pastures and in search of better economic conditions. A staggering 2.75 million have left the country in the past five years.
The country has been deprived of many highly-skilled workers including doctors, engineers, accountants, and managers who have chosen to leave the country. Many other professionals including teachers, nurses, electricians, computer operators and draftsmen have contributed to the brain drain phenomenon. A notable and worrying sign is that this pace accelerated during the tenure of the present PDM-led government- when the economy went into a tailspin. More than 1.2 million young people went overseas for employment during the tenure of the current coalition government.
For years, young people have faced joblessness, low wages and limited prospects to advance their careers. In the past year, the country is facing a deeper political and economic crisis in addition to a power struggle that has often turned violent. The value of the rupee has plummeted and despite securing a bailout, there is no sign of an economic turnaround.
In 2021, about 225,000 Pakistanis left the country, but the number nearly tripled to 765,000 last year. It has already crossed the figure half-way this year and shows no signs of abating in 2023. More and more people of all ages and professions are making the decision to leave. More importantly, students are opting to stay back abroad knowing the lack of jobs at home.
Many young people are going to the West- particularly United States and Europe- but a majority have joined Arab countries notably Saudi Arabia and UAE. Those who are unable to move through legal ways are making perilous sea migration journeys in desperation. This comes at great risks as was witnessed at the recent shipwreck in Greece in which over 350 Pakistanis lost their lives.
The brain drain has severe implications for Pakistan, as the country is deprived of skilled workers that contribute to country’s development. The government should be concerned by this trend and focus on improving the economic conditions, controlling inflation and creating economic opportunities.
Efforts should be made to retain highly-qualified professionals by offering competitive salaries and a conducive environment for growth. It is imperative to have a comprehensive strategy to revere the brain drain phenomenon and retain our brightest minds to channel the potential of the youth towards the nation’s development.
