Ghana Faces Talent Drain as 78% of Educated Citizens Consider Emigration
A growing proportion of Ghana’s educated workforce is considering emigration, with 78% of those with post-secondary education expressing a desire to leave the country, according to a new report by Afrobarometer.
The study highlights a rising trend of migration aspirations, particularly among young people aged 18 to 35, who account for 72% of those contemplating relocation. The primary drivers include job opportunities, economic hardship, and, to a lesser extent, tourism.
North America has emerged as the most preferred destination, followed by Europe and Central or South America. The report also finds that men and urban residents are more likely to express a desire to migrate.
At least six in ten Ghanaians have considered leaving the country for better economic prospects, with the proportion of citizens giving “a lot” of thought to emigration more than doubling since 2017.
The findings highlight Ghana’s deepening economic challenges and the risk of a brain drain, as skilled professionals increasingly look abroad for better opportunities. If the trend persists, it could pose a long-term threat to the country’s human capital and economic competitiveness.
