Half of Kenyan students prefer studying abroad, report finds
The report recommends that governments, universities, and employers work together to develop strategies that encourage young professionals to stay and contribute to Africa’s growth.
Nearly half of Kenyan students wish to study abroad, with a significant number indicating they have no plans of returning after completing their studies, according to a new report by the African Leadership University (ALU).
The survey, conducted between March 15 and June 13, 2024, targeted students and employers across nine African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.
Among the 1,008 Kenyan respondents, 44 per cent expressed their desire to pursue higher education overseas, with the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Europe emerging as the most preferred destinations.
"Just 52 per cent of students surveyed in Kenya said they plan on staying in Africa after completing their education. This partly reflects Kenya’s high youth unemployment rate, which sits at 67 per cent," the report states.
The survey highlighted that when selecting universities, Kenyan students prioritise institutions that offer work experiences during their studies. Other major considerations include financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and the chance to gain international exposure outside Africa.
While many students dream of global opportunities, the report also found that a majority of Kenyan graduates aspire to work in government or non-governmental organizations. However, concerns over job availability seem to be driving many to seek opportunities abroad.
Despite efforts by the government to facilitate employment abroad for Kenyans, the migration of young talent remains a growing concern. The report found that 64 per cent of employers worry about the long-term impact of brain drain on the country’s economy.
The report further noted that Kenya is not alone in facing these challenges. While 60 per cent of students from Ghana and 45 per cent from Nigeria expressed a strong interest in studying abroad, students from Ethiopia (82 per cent), Zimbabwe (82 per cent), and Uganda (71 per cent) were the most likely to stay within Africa for higher education. Overall, 35 per cent of all students surveyed indicated they do not plan to remain in Africa after completing their studies.
The report recommends that governments, universities, and employers work together to develop strategies that encourage young professionals to stay and contribute to Africa’s growth.
"To mitigate the effects of "brain drain’ and enhance the continent’s future economic prospects, it is essential to create attractive opportunities within Africa," the report suggests.
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