Thu | Jan 9, 2025

Addressing brain drain

Published:Saturday | October 5, 2024 | 12:06 AM

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The ongoing issue of brain drain in Jamaica prompts a crucial question: How can we enhance the attractiveness of our graduates to the international community? It is essential that tertiary institutions prepare students to be competitive professionals who are not only rated among the brightest but can also confidently contribute globally, attracting multinational corporations to establish operational hubs throughout the Caribbean and creating employment opportunities.

This milestone goes beyond call centres and limited contractor assignments, and can evolve to offer greater employment opportunities to our graduates. Our students, often passed over for leadership positions or, if hired, are offered lower-level roles because of the lack of insider advocacy, represent an untapped resource.

Attracting international investment is in the best interests of the future of our graduates, who are valuable resources. This is key to combatting inflation in the current non-competitive environment.

By embracing global standards, fostering international partnerships, and investing in career services, we can reverse brain drain and ensure our graduates are recognised as valuable assets worldwide. The universities must commit to these or other progressive strategies to secure the future success of their students on the international stage.

PATRICK BROWN

Pembroke Pines, Florida

pbrown_436@yahoo.com