AN ANALYSIS OF THE CORRELATION BETWEEN UNEMPLOYMENT AND BRAIN DRAIN IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

The rise in unemployment rates among individuals with higher education degrees has become a matter of apprehension on a global scale. This occurrence is perceived as a potential danger to the economies of many nations, causing concern for both governments and societies (Oppong & Sachs, 2017). However, it is important to note that industrialised countries are also affected by this social issue, although the prevalence is higher in many underdeveloped countries. Unemployment among youths in Africa is more prevalent in urban areas than in rural areas. This issue is particularly concerning for Cameroon's labour market and is negatively impacting it.  Balogun (2016) argued that a significant proportion of graduates from African universities struggle to secure employment. This issue suggests that the problem of unemployment among graduates and youths has become a significant challenge for the continent's growth. Over the past decade, there has been a significant surge in youth unemployment in numerous nations, including Cameroon. In addition, a higher unemployment rate in an economy is directly correlated with an increased level of poverty and the associated welfare difficulties (Adekola et al., 2017). 

The issue of high youth unemployment in Africa has garnered the interest of prominent international development organisations such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the United Nations. According to the African Development Bank (2016), Africa experiences an annual influx of 10-12 million young individuals joining the labour force. However, the continent only manages to generate 3 million formal employment opportunities each year. As per the International Labour Organisation (ILO, 2023), about 72 million young individuals in Africa are deprived of education, employment, or training (ILO 2023). According to Donkor (2021), Africa has the lowest official unemployment rate for youth aged 15 to 24 internationally. However, this statistic does not accurately reflect the reality, as a significant number of African youth labour in informal sectors and many are not fully employed. According to the World Bank, young people make up 60 percent of Africa's unemployed population. According to Ighohor (2017), the youth unemployment rate in North Africa is 25 percent, and it is even higher in countries such as Botswana, the Republic of Congo, Senegal, South Africa, and Cameroon.

According to Barnichon & Yee (2020), unemployment refers to individuals who are members of the labour force but are now without a job, yet are capable and willing to work. From a broader perspective, according to the majority of macroeconomic textbooks, an unemployed individual is someone who is willing, capable, and ready to work, but now lacks employment opportunities (Levantis, 2019). Cameroon, similar to numerous other Sub-Saharan African nations, confronts a chronic issue of unemployment, particularly among the younger population. The nation's labour market exhibits a discrepancy between the competencies generated by the educational system and those demanded by employers, resulting in elevated levels of unemployment among those with university degrees (Neba, 2020). The National Institute of Statistics reported that Cameroon's overall unemployment rate in 2021 stood at 3.9%. However, the youth unemployment rate was considerably higher, surpassing 13% (INS, 2021). The dearth of career prospects has resulted in a scenario where several young individuals, although attaining advanced education, are unable to secure remunerative work. The economic volatility has been recognised as a substantial driving force behind the phenomenon of brain drain (Asongu & Odhiambo, 2019).

Unemployment and brain drain are closely connected socio-economic problems that have had a considerable impact on Cameroon in recent years. The current unemployment rates, especially among highly educated young individuals, have reached concerning levels, leading to significant economic and social difficulties. Simultaneously, the nation has experienced a significant emigration of highly skilled workers in search of superior prospects outside, a phenomenon popularly known as brain drain.The British Royal Society popularised the phrase "brain drain" to describe the movement of technicians and scientists from the United Kingdom to Canada and the United States throughout the 1950s and 1960s (McKenzie et al., 2017). 

Brain drain commonly refers to the outflow of highly trained individuals from a nation. Brain drain is a phenomenon observed in both developing and developed countries, where there is a significant migration of skilled individuals from rural areas to metropolitan areas within the same country (Seun & Sanusi, 2020). It is crucial to provide the definition of brain drain at this point. The term 'brain drain' refers to the movement of highly skilled individuals from developing countries to wealthy countries, resulting in the transfer of human capital (Daniel, 2023). Moreover, it is a circumstance in which well-educated individuals relocate from their home country to another nation, typically in search of improved living conditions and higher wages (Suciu et al., 2017). Due to the lack of employment opportunities for young people and graduates in developing nations, there has been a growing desire among them to travel abroad (Anetoh & Onwudinjo, 2020). Cameroon experiences an annual occurrence of its residents migrating to more advanced countries around the world. This trend includes not only ordinary citizens but also notable figures and talented individuals who are currently leaving the country (Ahrens et al., 2017).

In Cameroon, this phenomenon has been apparent since the 1980s but has been more pronounced in the last two decades as a result of rising unemployment and political instability. A significant proportion of professionals from Cameroon, such as doctors, engineers, and academics, have relocated to Europe, North America, and other African nations in pursuit of enhanced career opportunities and higher living standards (Tande, 2018). The mass departure of people has led to a substantial depletion of the country's human resources, which is harmful to the country's socio-economic progress. The correlation between unemployment and brain drain is intricate and diverse. Elevated levels of unemployment, specifically among the well-educated younger population, frequently result in feelings of dissatisfaction, despair, and a longing to pursue more favourable prospects in foreign countries (Charles et al., 2021). The scarcity of employment prospects, along with inadequate remuneration and unfavourable labour conditions in Cameroon, serves as a compelling motivation for highly skilled individuals to migrate (Adepoju, 2016). The emigration of these highly qualified persons worsens the issue of unemployment, since it diminishes the pool of talented individuals required to stimulate economic expansion and foster innovation within the nation (Docquier & Rapoport, 2012).

In addition, the emigration of highly skilled individuals initiates a detrimental cycle in which the depletion of intellectual resources impedes economic progress, resulting in increased joblessness and subsequently exacerbating the phenomenon of brain drain. The government's failure to establish a conducive climate for employment creation and the retention of competent professionals has been identified as a significant factor contributing to this problem (Ndedi, 2018). The objective of this study is to thoroughly examine these processes, specifically investigating how unemployment in Cameroon is contributing to the emigration of highly skilled individuals and the wider consequences for the country's progress.  A number of studies have investigated the phenomenon of brain drain in Africa, specifically looking at the variables that contribute to the movement of qualified individuals and the consequences this has on development (Adepoju, 2019; Tebeje, 2017). Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of research precisely investigating the relationship between unemployment and brain drain in the context of Cameroon. Prior research has predominantly concentrated on analysing the economic and social consequences of brain drain, while giving little attention to the root causes, specifically the influence of unemployment. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon. It will provide valuable insights into various policy interventions that may be implemented to alleviate this problem.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Cameroon has been facing two significant socio-economic difficulties, namely unemployment and brain drain, for several decades. Although the country has a politically secure environment and plentiful natural resources, the ongoing issue of high unemployment rates, especially among educated young people, continues to hinder national growth (Fonkeng & Ntembe, 2017). Simultaneously, Cameroon has been witnessing a consistent exodus of highly skilled people who emigrate to other nations in pursuit of improved economic prospects. The brain drain phenomenon has had a negative impact on the country's pursuit of sustainable development, since it deprives the nation of the essential human resources needed to stimulate growth and innovation (Adepoju, 2017).

The degree of unemployment in Cameroon has reached concerning proportions, especially among the younger population. This issue has been recognised as a significant socio-economic problem (Fonkeng & Ntembe, 2017). The disparity between the skills imparted by the school system and the requirements of the job market has worsened this issue, resulting in numerous graduates being unable to secure jobs in their chosen subjects of study. The current circumstances have resulted in a pervasive feeling of dissatisfaction and despair among the youth, a significant number of whom saw migration as the sole feasible means of attaining a more promising future (Tande, 2018). The elevated level of unemployment has not only resulted in economic stagnation but has also exacerbated social instability and heightened poverty rates in the nation.

The occurrence of brain drain has resulted in a substantial depletion of highly skilled individuals, such as doctors, engineers, scientists, and academics, who are crucial for the progress of the country (Ngi, 2020). The emigration of these professionals to more advanced nations, where they can obtain superior employment prospects and living standards, has caused a severe scarcity of skilled workforce in Cameroon. The scarcity has had adverse effects on multiple industries, specifically healthcare, education, and technology, impeding advancements and innovation due to the lack of skilled experts (Neba, 2020). The departure of highly qualified workers has also played a role in the decline of institutions and the overall ability of the government to deliver vital services to its population.

Although brain drain has a substantial effect on Cameroon's development, there is a lack of research on the specific elements that contribute to this phenomena, particularly the influence of unemployment. Prior research has identified economic instability, political factors, and unsatisfactory working conditions as factors that contribute to brain drain (Adepoju, 2017). However, there has been a lack of attention on how unemployment directly impacts the decision of talented professionals to move. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of this connection is essential for formulating efficient strategies to alleviate the emigration of skilled individuals and tackle the root causes of joblessness in the nation.

The dearth of extensive data and analysis regarding the correlation between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon has posed difficulties for policymakers in devising strategies that effectively tackle these issues concurrently. In order to effectively retain qualified individuals and reduce unemployment, it is crucial to have a comprehensive grasp of how unemployment contributes to brain drain. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive examination of the relationship between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon. It will investigate the degree to which unemployment stimulates skilled migration and examine the wider consequences for the country's socio-economic progress.

1.3 Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically Analyze the Correlation Between Unemployment and Brain Drain in Cameroon. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To assess the level of unemployment in Cameroon

To assess the factors contributing to unemployment in Cameroon

To assess the correlation between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon

To assess the Implications of Brain Drain in Cameroon

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

What is the level of unemployment in Cameroon? 

What are the factors contributing to unemployment in Cameroon?

What is the correlation between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon?

What is the Implications of Brain Drain in Cameroon?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

To determine the effectiveness of this study, the following research null hypotheses will be formulated to guide the study and it will be tested at 0.05% levels of significance.:

Ho:  There is no significant relationship between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon.

Ha: There is a significant relationship between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon.

1.6 Significance of the study

The investigation into the relationship between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon is of great significance due to its implications for the economy, society, and policy-making. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of this link can yield useful insights into the intricate dynamics and reciprocal influence of these two events, ultimately shaping the trajectory of the country's development. The study will serve as a fundamental repository of knowledge for governments, communities, the general public, scholars, and academics.

The relationship between unemployment and brain drain offers crucial information for policymakers. If a strong correlation is established between high unemployment rates and brain drain, specific interventions can be developed to more efficiently tackle the issue of unemployment. This encompasses the augmentation of employment opportunities, the enhancement of educational excellence, and the synchronisation of vocational training with the demands of the labour market. Excessive brain drain can result in the depletion of highly qualified workers who are crucial for fostering innovation, enhancing productivity, and driving economic growth. On the other hand, long-lasting unemployment could motivate well-educated individuals to pursue possibilities in other countries. Gaining insight into this correlation can assist policymakers in formulating tactics to retain skilled individuals and guarantee that the labour force makes a valuable contribution to the overall progress of the nation's economy.

Furthermore, Unemployment has the potential to cause societal instability, and the phenomenon of brain drain can intensify the sense of disillusionment among those who choose to stay. Gaining insight into the relationship between these problems can aid in evaluating the wider societal consequences, such as the stability of communities and the unity of a nation. Effectively tackling unemployment and brain drain can significantly enhance social stability and elevate the overall quality of life for citizens. 

Furthermore, for students and young professionals, comprehending the connection between unemployment and brain drain can help them make informed decisions about their career paths and educational endeavours. Additionally, it can educate educational institutions on the significance of synchronising curricula with market demands and cultivating talents that hold value both nationally and globally.

Moreover, the discoveries derived from this study can establish a basis for forthcoming investigations on interconnected subjects. For example, additional research can examine particular reasons that contribute to the phenomenon of brain drain, evaluate the efficacy of policies that have been put into place, and explore other socio-economic issues that are connected to this matter.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically analyze the Correlation Between Unemployment and Brain Drain in Cameroon. Empirically, the study will discuss the level of unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon, the factors contributing to unemployment in Cameroon, the correlation between unemployment and brain drain in Cameroon and the Impact of Brain Drain on the Cameroonian Economy. 

 Geographically, the study will be carried out in Bafoussam, Cameroon. 

1.8 Limitations of the study

During the analysis, the researchers noted inherent limits that are present in all human behaviours. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, resulting from the scarcity of data on an Analysis of the Correlation Between Unemployment and Brain Drain in Cameroon. Therefore, a significant allocation of time and exertion was necessary to determine the appropriate materials, books, or information and gather data. 

Furthermore, this study is constrained by its small sample size and narrow geographic scope, mostly focused on Cameroon. Therefore, the generalisability of the findings from this study is restricted, underscoring the need for further investigation. 

Moreover, the limitations faced by the researcher were primarily due to financial constraints, as they are a student with insufficient financial means to sustain themselves. The exorbitant transportation rates at the research site posed a challenge in meeting the financial obligations related to transportation expenses.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to do this research while simultaneously fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and participating in other educational pursuits.

1.9 Definition of terms

Unemployment: Unemployment is a term referring to individuals who are employable and actively seeking a job but are unable to find a job. Included in this group are those people in the workforce who are working but do not have an appropriate job.

Unemployment rate: The unemployment rate is the percentage of people in the labor force who are unemployed. Consequently, measuring the unemployment rate requires identifying who is in the labor force. The labor force includes people who are either employed or unemployed.

Brain drain: Brain drain is a slang term that refers to a substantial emigration or migration of individuals out of a country. It can result from turmoil, the existence of favorable professional opportunities in other countries, or a desire to seek a higher standard of living. 

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