An alarming migration rate among Tunisian engineers severely impacts on economic and social development as well as the country's ability to manage its energy, digital and ecological transitions, secure the sustainability of the economic model and improve its international competitiveness. These are the main findings of a study entitled "Brain Drain of Engineers in Tunisia: Causes, Consequences and Economic Policy Propsals" released early July by the Tunisian Institute for Strategic Studies (ITES). The migration of Tunisian engineers poses a tremendous threat to growth with nearly 3,000 leaving the country each year. The number peaked in 2022, hitting 6,500, statistics provided by the Tunisian Order of Engineers (OIT) show. "The impact of migration goes beyond the present generation, compromising future opportunities (inter-generational transmission of effects)," the ITES said. Diminished expertise and innovation in Tunisia, ITES said, is the main fallout. The massive outflow of engineers undermines expert ise and innovation in the country, taking its toll on industrial productivity, competitiveness on international markets and investments in research and development. This results in a vicious circle where the lack of innovation discourages investment in human capital and technology. More marked divisions between industrialised and developing countries will be reported as the human capital flight erodes the basis of expertise for local teaching and research, hampering reserach and development initiatives and limiting the country's ability to respond to specific local challenges. Technology dependence risks for Tunisia cannot be ruled out as the brain drain when it comes to engineers jeopardises the country's ability to develop its own solutions to meet energy, environment and industrial needs. Tunisia's attractiveness for foreign direct investment would likewise be affected, deterring potential investors and reducing funding earmarked for research and development which cuminates in a vicious circle of under- investment. " The lack of engineering expertise hinders economic development in crucial sectors, such as energy, environment and manufacturing industries," further reads the study. This brings technology dependence and constrains Tunisia's ability to innovate, curbing competitiveness and economic diversification. The study pinpoints priority actions for the retention of engineers and the prevention of brain drain. This includes optimising work conditions, enhancing career advancement, adapting the education system to the requirements of the labour market, strengthening political and economic stability, upgrading infrastructure and stimulating the entrepreneurial ecoystem. Higher research and development grants, increased private incvestments, preferential tax regimes for engineers, tax incentives for tech businesses and upgraded management practices are the main recommendations of the study. This in addition to boosting partnerships with global corporations and promoting the integration of expatriate Tunis ian engineers in local projects. Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse