Why do many educated individuals leave Zimbabwe? Economic realities and the draw of developed countries

Abstract

Zimbabwe grapples with a significant brain drain as many educated individuals seek better opportunities abroad. Given the decreasing number of highly educated individuals who remain in the country, their prospects of career advancement and wealth generation are expected to increase. This research aimed to investigate the impact of education on the employment status and income of individuals who stay in Zimbabwe. Cross-sectional data from the World Values Survey was used to characterize Zimbabwean respondents in relation to their employment status and income. To provide a comparative context, the results were juxtaposed with data from Australia and the United Kingdom (UK), popular destinations for Zimbabwean immigrants. Educated individuals in Zimbabwe face higher unemployment rates (22%) than those in Australia (2%) and the UK (3%). Additionally, educated Zimbabweans are more frequently self-employed (25%) than educated individuals in Australia (7%) and the UK (8%). Moreover, educated Zimbabweans are less likely to categorize themselves as high earners (10%) than Australians (38%) and UK residents (19%) with similar educational backgrounds. The significant disparities in employment rates, self-employment prevalence and perceived high-earning status between educated individuals in Zimbabwe and those in Australia and the UK underscore the challenges faced by educated individuals within Zimbabwean society. This research underscores the need for more job opportunities and the limited wealth creation prospects of highly educated individuals in Zimbabwe. If economic inclusivity is not fostered for the educated workforce, the brain drain will persist since opportunities will remain scarce, even for those who stay in the country. Targeted interventions to address structural issues and to promote a more inclusive economic environment in Zimbabwe are deemed necessary.