There is a famous saying: “Appreciation makes a person better.” Its meaning extends beyond personal relationships. Appreciation can also strengthen institutions.

It is not limited to praise or awards. It can mean a fair opportunity, promotion based on merit or the assurance that hard work will not go unnoticed. When people feel valued, they become more productive and committed. When talent is ignored, merit is overshadowed by influence and hard work fails to provide a dignified livelihood, people begin to look elsewhere.

This is where Pakistan’s brain drain begins.

Every year, talented Pakistanis leave in search of better education, employment, research opportunities, professional growth and security. Many do not leave because they have stopped loving Pakistan, but because they believe their dreams have a better chance of surviving elsewhere.

Brain drain, however, should not be viewed simplistically. Migration can bring remittances, knowledge and international connections. The real question is not whether Pakistanis should leave, but why leaving so often appears to be the........

© The Nation