Domino effect of brain drain

Greater challenges are facing low- and middle-income countries around the globe, particularly in filtering of talent. This phenomenon is not new; it has existed since ancient times. However, the scale and impact have changed. Nowadays, many parents first think of sending their children abroad for education and employment opportunities. They are anxious to ensure their children achieve these goals.
This issue is not confined to Bangladesh; it is prevalent in other low- and middle-income countries where there is no certainty of securing a good job after completing higher education. Countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Pakistan, and others in South Asia face similar challenges. Middle- and low-income countries in Europe and Africa are no exceptions.
The other form is brain drain. Talented students often go abroad permanently for higher studies, jobs, and research opportunities after completing their academic careers. They contribute their skills and knowledge abroad in exchange for substantial foreign currency and other benefits. As a result of this continuous brain filtering, rich and developed countries become richer and more developed, exacerbating brain inequality globally.
To prevent this type of brain inequality, governments should take initiatives to provide facilities that foster development of brilliant people within their countries. World leaders should collaborate to distribute talented individuals across various nations. If the government of a specific small- or medium-income country is unable to address the issue alone, multilateral cooperation should be employed to mitigate such problems.

Md. Muradul Haque Sardar
Manager - Purchase (Local & Foreign)
Amanat Shah Group, Motijheel, Dhaka
[email protected]