Brain drain of the scientific community of developing countries: the case of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Many Asian developing countries face an increasing drain of their scientific community as a current challenge. This study identifies the trends in Sri Lanka and investigates the nature and dynamics of the pull and push factors at play here and in host countries. We used the expatriate scientists' database of the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka and a follow-up survey. A highest proportion of the expatriate scientists are in the USA, followed by Australia. The majority of respondents held postgraduate degrees; around 50% had doctoral degrees. 'Further studies' was the major reason for emigration, followed by better career prospects. Engineering was the most common specialization, followed by chemistry, agricultural sciences and microbiology/biotechnology/molecular biology. If their demands are adequately met, the majority of the expatriates were willing to return to Sri Lanka.

International Migration Decision-Making and Destination Selection Among Skilled Migrants

“…The key reasons that migrants choose to leave their country of origin are recognised as being economic, political, cultural, family, and career factors (Carr, Inkson, & Thorn, 2005). Many studies of migration decision-making have focused on these reasons for the move, usually categorising them as push/pull or macro/micro factors (Anas & Wickremasinghe, 2010;Bushin, 2009;De Jong & Gardner, 1981;Haug, 2008;Kontuly, Smith, & Heaton, 1995;Schoorl et al, 2000). Push and pull factors respectively focus on evaluations of certain characteristics in the source and destination countries (e.g., crime).…”

An empirical study of the factors that motivate Sri Lankan professionals to migrate to Qatar

“…A survey conducted by Anas and Wickremasinghe (2010) on Sri Lankan expatriate scientists has identified that higher-quality postgraduate study options available in the OECD as the primary reason for the migration of Sri Lankan scientific community, followed by better career opportunities. In addition, the study reveals that the expatriate scientists are also concerned about push factors such as shortage of intellectual guidance, bureaucratic barriers and low job satisfaction.…”

Repatriation of Academics: A Study on Sri Lankan University Lecturers

“…Before academics leave the country, in Sri Lanka, they need to sign an agreement with their university confirming that they will return to their home organization and serve for a particular period back at home university. Sri Lankan expatriates have strong family ties and are sentimental about their country (Anas & Wickremasinghe, 2010). Because of the bond agreement and family attachment, a reasonable number of academics return to their home university.…”