Brain Drain in Private Universities in Kenya: Seeking for an Innovative Solution

Abstract

The problem of brain drain is a worldwide phenomenon that has been and is still being experienced by most institutions of higher learning both in the developed and developing world.  This study, therefore, earmarked at finding out the causes, effects and possible innovative solutions toward retaining skilled lecturers in institutions of higher learning. This research was carried out using a descriptive survey design. Data was collected from all lecturers at University of Eastern Africa, Baraton using questionnaires on a 5 point rating Likert scale of Strongly Agree, SA=5, Agree, A=4, Uncertain, UC=3, Disagree, DA=4, Strongly Disagree, SD=1. The questionnaire was validated by experts in the Education Department at UEAB. The researchers administered the instruments. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Findings exposed low basic salary, poor administration, political instability and absence of study opportunities as major causes of brain drain.  Respondents also strongly agreed that the receiving university benefit immensely in terms of: expansion of the pool of skilled lecturers; contribution to the quality of education; boosting morale of lecturers and enhancing popularity of the university. Major solutions to brain drain were improved remunerations, effective administration, stable working environment, attractive employment opportunities, national and international links promotion, opportunities for further academic developments and fair promotion procedures. Findings also showed that if these solutions are implemented at a university, such a university will be able to retain its lecturers.Key words: brain drain; private universities; higher education; pulling factors; pushing factors; innovation.