Rethinking Brain Drain in Africa: Factors Driving the Exodus of the Highly Educated and the Role of Higher Education in Reversing the Trend
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Date
2025
Authors
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Publisher
Migration and Development
Abstract
A discourse on the role of higher education institutions in Africa and the continued human capital flight from Africa is a ripe agenda. Using a cross-sectional survey design, the researcher engaged professionals from African countries who have received academic training from foreign countries as well as international work experience. The study employed Braun and Clerk’s framework, and thematic analysis of data was carried out to explain meanings and dormant ideas from the data. The study’s theoretical underpinning was based on the pull–push theory of migration, to explain the study findings. From the study, it was noted that there is a need to align Africa’s education curriculum with industry requisites, contextualise education for Africa’s unique challenges, establish policies and incentives to retain talent and invest in quality education with and through research funding. The study further underscores the pivotal role of effective leadership, collaboration between higher education institutions (HEIs) and the private–public sector, civic engagement and infrastructure development in crafting an environment conducive to talent retention. The study recommends, with recognition of the continent’s abundant talent, the need for HEIs to align education with market demands and foster an enabling environment for skilled professionals to contribute to African’s holistic development.
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Keywords
Human capital flight, brain drain, brain gain, higher education institutions
Citation
Kanyesigye, M. R. Rethinking Brain Drain in Africa: Factors Driving the Exodus of the Highly Educated and the Role of Higher Education in Reversing the Trend. Migration and Development, 21632324251352312.