NAKURU – As Harun Mwangi from Nakuru County prepared to board a flight to Philadelphia on Thursday, November 13, 2025, he represented a significant and growing trend in Kenya: the pursuit of specialized postgraduate education in the United States. Mwangi is set to begin a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Temple University, a journey facilitated by a private entity, The International Scholars Program (ISP).

His story mirrors that of thousands of other Kenyans seeking advanced degrees and career opportunities abroad. This movement of skilled individuals brings to the forefront a national debate on whether this phenomenon constitutes a "brain drain"—a loss of vital human capital—or a "brain gain," where returning scholars and diaspora networks ultimately benefit the country.

The High Cost of a US Education

The path to an American university is a substantial financial undertaking. For international students, a Master's degree in the U.S. can cost between $20,000 and $45,000 (KES 2.6 million to KES 5.9 million) per year in tuition alone. Some estimates place the total annual cost, including living expenses, between $30,000 and $120,000 (KES 3.9 million to KES 15.7 million). Temple University's Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, for instance, has a listed first-year tuition fee of approximately $29,897 (KES 3.9 million), with living costs estimated at an additional $16,110 (KES 2.1 million).

These figures highlight the significant investment required, often sourced from family savings, loans, or scholarships. Mwangi's journey was supported by The International Scholars Program (ISP), formerly known as the Kenya Airlift Program. According to its founder, Bob Mwiti, the organization assists students in financing their education, including tuition and relocation expenses, through partnerships with US-based lenders and universities. In an interview on October 1, 2024, Mwiti confirmed that while ISP facilitates funding, students are required to pay a consultation fee, which he stated was $1,100.

A Growing National Trend

The number of Kenyans pursuing higher education abroad is significant. According to 2023 data from UNESCO, over 14,000 Kenyans were studying in foreign countries. The United States remains a top destination. While the most recent comprehensive data from the Institute of International Education's (IIE) Open Doors report for the 2019-2020 academic year showed 3,710 Kenyan students in the U.S., the overall trend for Sub-Saharan Africa has been one of growth. A subsequent IIE report noted a 13% increase in students from the region in the 2023-2024 academic year.

Engineering is a popular field of study for international students in the U.S., second only to Math and Computer Science. Temple University's program, which Mwangi will attend, focuses on preparing students for careers in industrial research and development, offering specializations in areas like robotics, bioengineering, and materials science.

The Brain Drain vs. Brain Gain Debate

The departure of skilled professionals like Mwangi fuels an ongoing debate in Kenya. Critics argue it represents a "brain drain," where the country loses talent it has invested in, potentially hindering economic development. This loss of human capital can create skills shortages in critical sectors.

However, a more nuanced view suggests a potential "brain gain." This perspective argues that students who study abroad can acquire advanced skills and global networks that are beneficial upon their return. Furthermore, the Kenyan diaspora is a significant source of remittances, which support families, fund local investments, and provide a crucial source of foreign exchange. Proponents of this view argue that the key is not to prevent migration but to create a domestic environment that encourages skilled professionals to return and contribute their expertise. This includes fostering better career opportunities and creating a conducive environment for research and innovation.

As Mwangi begins his studies, his personal ambition is intertwined with these larger national questions. His stated goal to one day "pay it forward" reflects the hope that his international education will ultimately contribute to Kenya's development, turning a potential drain into a definitive gain.