top of page

Lost in the Labyrinth: When Supply Beats Demand, Hopelessness Wins

In this era of science and technology it is very easy to assume that demand for scientists is high everywhere, but is that the reality? Across Africa, many highly trained scientists find themselves trapped in a disheartening cycle of unemployment, and unfulfilled potential. This paradox raises urgent questions about how the continent’s brightest minds can thrive in a landscape riddled with systemic barriers.

The market Irony

Africa is known to be rich in natural resources, however in spite producing tens of thousands of scientists annually, thanks to the growing emphasis on higher education and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines, the demand for these professionals often fall short of supply. Research and development underfunding is a norm for governments and private sectors. The disconnects leaves more scientists with degrees but no clear career path. The institutions of higher learning are slowly turning into institutions of higher earnings with promising theories and zero practical aspects. The learned are invisible while the corrupt folks invincible. Those in the apex of their professions no longer care about what they teach. They continue teaching the same things which are focused on raising good employees rather than employers and releasing the bunch of graduates in the market dominated by self-centered characters who will call the graduates quacks and half-baked. The market where connection beat qualifications and corruption is top notch…

Factors driving the crisis

Industry- academia collaboration- This is perhaps one of the major factors giving graduates ‘half-baked’ status. Lack of partnership between industries and higher learning institutions means research always remain theoretical with no avenue for practical application. And science cannot be theory!

Underfunded research and development- the cost African nations spend on research and development is approximately 1% or less of their GDP which is by far below the global average. This of course leaves little room for new positions and projects that could absorb the growing pool of scientists.

Employment- oriented structure rather than product-oriented structure- Most higher earning institutions have structured programs that raise good employees rather than employers. As one Kenyan biochemist stated, “As a country we went south and refused to return. These courses were originally built for the market…”. This means that in some ways, our structures at the higher learning as still lagging behind in producing employees but not innovators.

Brain drain- Every government promises jobs abroad instead of utilizing the brains to bring change to their motherland. The lure of better opportunities overseas makes scientists leave Africa for greener pastures draining the continent of its talent and shrinking the job market for those who remain.

Unfavorable government policies- When a country decides to frustrate investors with heavy taxations, the investors will leave and thousands will lose jobs. “Corporates funds research and the outcome is taken up by the industries”, remarked a Kenyan biochemist. When corporates close, the will lack money to fund research and will not employ.


How can we bring change?

The plight of scientists and graduates at large calls for immediate attention and action throughout Africa. Solutions are always within reach but are always ignored for the betterment of some few.

To start with, it will be very crucial for academic institutions to rethink about what they teach. Restructure the programs to run along with time. Make them product oriented, emphasize on practical more than theory. Put more effort on research and development. Proposal writings and project managements should be a key focus for every student.


Secondly, it calls for governments and private sectors in African countries to come together and prioritize funding scientific research and innovation. This will create jobs as well as drive economic growth. Those governments should also ensure what is taught in schools go in hand with what market demands. This will be enhanced by promoting strong links between institutions and industries and eradicate some programs that seems to be waste of time and money to parents and students all together.


Thirdly, Africa should stand together to tackle brain drain. Other than exporting brains overseas, African heads of state should come together and formulate or improve internal/African scholarships to help retain brains and manpower that will then foster development and change. This can be done by creating supportive environment and competitive salaries and opportunities.


Lastly, scientists should be equipped with the tools to translate their research into start ups and small businesses that address local challenges. though these initiatives, many will get practical experience through internships as well as employments.


In conclusion, Africa should focus on producing what it can consume and consume first then export the excess. There is no need for Africa to produce engineers, biomedical scientists, chemists, doctors, economists, and other professions if in the long run they will import such professions from outside while our own are assumed semi-skilled. By addressing such systemic issues and fostering an environment where education is rewarded and science thrives, the crisis can be turned into an opportunity, ensuring scientists and elites find purpose, dignity, and a place to contribute meaningfully to society. It is our responsibility to work together and drive change by shifting our perspective on the changes that shape the world around us.

Please subscribe, comment, and share.

 
 
 

3 Σχόλια


elijakitheka15
25 Δεκ 2024

Scientific based knowledge to enlighten scientists

Μου αρέσει

mohamedlaitete
20 Δεκ 2024

Knowledge based content🔥

Μου αρέσει

Jimmy James
Jimmy James
18 Δεκ 2024

Important real information to know

Έγινε επεξεργασία
Μου αρέσει
bottom of page