IN a world that is getting increasingly interconnected, the movement of talent across borders is natural. However, for Pakistan, the exodus of its brightest minds — commonly referred to as brain drain — has become a pressing issue, raising serious concerns about the nation’s ability to harness its human capital for sustainable development.

According to the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment, more than 800,000 Pakistanis left the country in 2023 alone. Among them were skilled professionals, including doctors, engineers, information technology (IT) experts and academics. The reasons for brain drain are multi-faceted, rooted in both push and pull factors.

Domestically, limited opportunities for career growth, political instability, lack of meritocracy, and inadequate infrast-ructure push many talented individuals to seek better prospects abroad.

On the other hand, developed countries actively attract talent through appealing immigration policies, competitive salaries, and a better quality of life.

The departure of skilled professionals comes at a high cost for Pakistan. The healthcare sector, for instance, faces a significant shortage of doctors, especially in rural areas, where healthcare access is already limited.

Similarly, the IT sector, which has immense potential to drive the country’s economic growth, struggles to retain talent despite its burgeoning freelance and start-up ecosystem.

Moreover, brain drain contributes to a vicious cycle of underdevelopment. When skilled individuals leave, the capacity of key sectors diminishes, leading to slower economic growth and fewer opportunities for the next generation. This cycle per-petuates a sense of despair, encouraging even more people to leave.

Reversing the brain drain is a daunting, but not an impossible task. Establishing world-class institutions and research facilities can provide young professionals with due opportunities to grow within Pakistan. Collaboration between univ-ersities and industries can bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world applications. Offering competitive salaries, professional development programmes and benefits comparable to international standards can incentivise professionals to stay. Tax incentives may work wonders.

With the rise of remote work, Pakistan can encourage its skilled workers to engage with international companies from home. This will retain talent, and boost foreign exchange earnings.

Finally, we need a stable political environment and transparent systems for instilling confidence in professionals and investors alike. Addressing brain drain requires a strong political will and collaborative efforts.

Leaders must create a vision for a prosperous Pakistan, where talent is valued, opportunities are abundant, and young professionals can see a future for themselves.

With one of the youngest populations in the world, Pakistan has the potential to transform itself into a knowledge-based economy. This can happen only if the brain drain is tackled head-on. Retaining talent is not just an economic necessity, but a moral imperative to ensure that Pakistan’s best and brightest contribute to their homeland’s growth and prosperity.

Sadaf Amjad
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, February 17th, 2025