Pakistan does not have a shortage of talent. It has a shortage of pathways through which that talent can become productive at home. It is the world's fifth most populous country with more than 60% of citizens under 30. This youth bulge is often described as a demographic opportunity. But opportunity does not automatically translate into growth.

Pakistan's young workforce has the potential to produce goods, add value, export services, build enterprises and deliver essential public and private services. But when the economy fails to create high-quality jobs, many young professionals are pushed to seek better opportunities abroad. This has resulted in a steady exodus of talent, commonly described as brain drain.

Brain drain means fewer doctors and nurses in underserved areas, fewer qualified teachers and researchers, and the loss of policy experts, engineers, civil servants and other skilled professionals. According to a study by PIDE, the migration rate is 71% for skilled and semi-skilled, 24% for highly skilled and 32% for highly qualified........

© The Express Tribune