Leaving the Academic Sector: Saudi Society

Abstract

This study aims to identify the most important reasons academics prefer to leave work in the academic sector in favor of other opportunities outside the walls of universities. This study seeks to shed light on academics to understand their views on the actual motives of this phenomenon, its effects on administrative development in universities and society, and its repercussions on the competitiveness of universities in Saudi Arabia. This study was conducted through interviews with academics who have left academic work and with current academics or those who intend to leave academic work and depart from universities in favor of other opportunities. The results indicate that there are several reasons leading to job leakage, some of which are related to the university work environment, administrative complexities, weak leadership competencies, and bureaucracy. Some are related to the attractiveness of alternative opportunities in terms of financial compensation, self-fulfillment, and achieving a prestigious social status. The study indicates several effects resulting from the departure of academic talents and the implications of this phenomenon for the competitiveness of Saudi universities at the local, regional, and international levels. The study presents several recommendations derived from the study's results, which, if implemented, could contribute to reducing this phenomenon. KEYWORDS Administrative development, brain drain, career management, career success, job satisfaction, work environment.