Plugging the talent drain

This refers to the letter ‘Lost talent’ (September 17, 2024) by Mudassar Farid Qureshi, which highlights the alarming rate of brain drain in Pakistan. I strongly agree with the writer’s perspective and his call for the government to confront this issue on an urgent basis.

Our education system produces highly skilled graduates but fails to provide them with meaningful employment opportunities. Graduates face job offers with low salaries that are insufficient to cover basic living expenses.

This financial strain compels many talented individuals to seek opportunities abroad, where their skills are better valued and rewarded. The government should offer jobs based on merit and foster partnerships between educational institutions and industries. Such collaborations would make it easier for students to find relevant employment opportunities upon graduation. By bridging the gap between education and industry, Pakistan can better retain its talented youth.

Areeba Batool Qureshi

Islamabad