Brain Drain in Pakistan

According to statistics, the trend of emigration from Pakistan has significantly increased in recent years. This trend has been driven not only by the country’s economic conditions but also by global changes and the development opportunities available abroad. Due to economic pressures, the search for a better quality of life, educational opportunities, and improved healthcare services, Pakistani citizens are moving to different parts of the world. Although the decision to move abroad is based on individual preferences, the factors behind it are closely related to broader economic, social, and political circumstances.

In Pakistan, growing issues such as poverty, unemployment, and economic instability have forced millions of people to leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad. According to a global organization's report, about 700,000 people emigrated from Pakistan in 2023, although this number was over 800,000 in 2022. The highest number of people leaving the country was recorded in 2015, with a total of 946,571 people, the majority of whom moved to Gulf countries. According to the World Bank, in the current situation, while global development is accelerating, Pakistan faces numerous challenges that compel people to seek opportunities abroad.

Experts indicate that the primary reasons for emigration are employment opportunities, better education, and access to improved facilities. According to PIDE, 37% of young people in Pakistan are unemployed despite having higher education. Additionally, factors such as political instability, insecurity, and declining standards of living contribute to this trend. A report by Aga Khan University indicates that 95% of its students wish to move abroad, with the main reason being low salaries in Pakistan. Furthermore, there has been an increase in illegal migration, with many Pakistanis trying to reach their destination through unsafe routes. According to another PIDE report, in 2022, around 33,100 people applied for asylum in Europe and the UK. A Gallup report also states that 50% of young people want to leave the country permanently.

What aspects make foreign countries attractive to young people? When asked about this, Dr. Mohammad Ashfaq stated that the primary reason for emigration is the higher income abroad. In addition, access to better healthcare and a higher quality of life also plays a significant role. He further mentioned that research opportunities abroad are far more plentiful compared to Pakistan, which could be another reason why young students prefer going abroad rather than staying in Pakistan. In a similar vein, one student shared that job opportunities in Pakistan are scarce, and even when they find employment, the salaries are very low or they are exploited in trial periods that lead to financial distress.

Do people leaving Pakistan manage to fulfill all their aspirations? The answer to this question varies based on individual experiences. Some young people appear to be very happy after leaving the country, while others feel that their experiences were nothing short of a nightmare.

What opportunities can be provided to young people in Pakistan to reduce the trend of emigration? Answering this, education expert Nadia Sajid suggested that the primary focus should be on tackling unemployment. Additionally, improving basic services and enhancing research opportunities are also crucial. She further emphasized that students should be made aware that serving their country should be their primary duty.

The Pakistani government is also becoming more serious about these matters. In line with this, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) has established the Pakistan Education and Research Network (PERN), which is promoting research in over 60 universities. The trend of digital libraries is also being encouraged. Moreover, the Pakistani government has increased the minimum wage from 32,000 to 37,000 rupees. However, some experts believe that these measures are not sufficient. There is a strong need to further improve the standards of education and healthcare and to create more employment opportunities.