Factors shaping Bangladeshi students’ migration decision using push–pull theory: a focus group study

Abstract

In recent times, global student migration has been growing rapidly, including an increase in student migration from Bangladesh. However, the field of student migration from Bangladesh remains relatively neglected in migration research. Hence, this study aims to explore the factors which influence Bangladeshi students in their migration decision. This study employed a qualitative research design to investigate the research questions. Specifically, the data collection involved ten focus group discussions with university students in Bangladesh. Subsequently, the researchers conducted a thematic analysis of the data using the Granheim approach, which involved identifying patterns and themes in the data. The NVivo 12 software was utilized to facilitate the analysis. The present study employs the push–pull theory to shed light on the determinants of student migration decisions. The research findings elucidate the salience of push factors, such as corruption, discrimination, lack of good governance, political instability, and limited freedom of expression, which potent motivators students to leave their home countries. In contrast, the study identifies various pull factors that attract students to settle abroad, including better living standards, economic opportunities, as well as career advancement and social value that impact migration choices. The study outcomes have crucial implications for policymakers, stakeholders, and the Ministry of Education to formulate appropriate policies in this domain.