Brain drain's impact : a case study on final year students

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the phenomenon of brain drain among young adults in Malta, particularly focusing on final-year tertiary students contemplating migration after graduation. Brain drain, defined as the emigration of highly qualified individuals seeking better opportunities abroad, poses significant challenges for home countries, especially small states, by depleting their talent pool and undermining economic contributions. The study aims to assess the migration intentions of Maltese students, examining various influencing factors such as field of study, gender, degree type, income, and push and pull factors. Utilizing a custom survey and employing a linear probability model and a logistic regression analysis, the research identifies significant influences on migration intentions and provides a comprehensive understanding of the motivations behind potential emigration. The literature review highlights existing studies on brain drain, focusing on the critical role of youth in this trend and the socio-economic pressures they face. It discusses the push and pull factors that shape migration decisions, including educational opportunities, job prospects, and living conditions. Notably, the review identifies gaps in current research, such as the lack of concrete policy recommendations and the need for a more nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of migration flows. The findings from the survey, which analysed responses from final-year students, reveal that economic opportunity is the primary motivator for migration, with about two-thirds of respondents indicating a desire to seek better job prospects and higher salaries abroad. The econometric analysis indicates that while demographic factors such as gender did not exhibit statistically significant effects on migration intentions, self-perception emerged as a crucial determinant. Students who viewed themselves as likely to migrate demonstrated a stronger inclination towards emigration, highlighting the importance of personal beliefs and attitudes in shaping migration behaviour, with pull factors emerging significant in the decision to migrate. The study also identifies a range of push factors, including limited job opportunities and low wages in Malta, alongside pull factors such as the allure of better salaries and quality of life in destination countries. The preference for migration to English-speaking countries, particularly the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, reflects broader trends in migration patterns, where individuals gravitate towards nations offering favourable economic conditions and social stability. The implications of brain drain for Malta are profound, as the emigration of skilled graduates threatens to widen the skills gap and hinder economic growth. To address these challenges, the research emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions that enhance the attractiveness of staying in Malta, such as improving job prospects, offering competitive salaries, and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation. In conclusion, this dissertation contributes to the understanding of brain drain in Malta by providing insights into the factors influencing migration intentions among young adults. The findings underscore the importance of addressing both economic and emotional dimensions of migration decisions, as well as the necessity for comprehensive strategies to retain educated youth and foster a thriving economy. Future research directions are suggested, including longitudinal studies and qualitative approaches to further explore the complexities of migration intentions and the potential for brain circulation.