Germany’s investment in international students has shown a remarkable return, and it directly impacts Pakistani students as well. Let’s break it down with examples and explain how it works, particularly in the context of Pakistani students:
- Germany’s Return on Investment (ROI): Even though many German universities do not charge high tuition fees for international students, Germany sees a return of around 8 times the amount it invests in their education. This return is not only from student spending (on housing, food, transport) but also from the students who stay in Germany after graduation, contribute to taxes, and work in the economy.
Example: Imagine Germany spends €1 on an international student’s education. Over time, that student might work and pay taxes, contributing about €8 back into the economy. If 40% of foreign students decide to stay and work in Germany after graduation, their taxes and spending help Germany cover the cost of their education within 3 years of graduation.
- Retention of International Graduates: Germany has a very high retention rate for international students. Around 65% of international students in Germany express a desire to stay after they finish their studies. This means Germany benefits from skilled workers who contribute to the economy for the long term.
Example: If you are a Pakistani student studying in Germany and you decide to stay there after you graduate, your taxes, social security contributions, and spending on goods and services will help Germany’s economy grow. Over your lifetime, your contributions will be far greater than what Germany spent on your education.
- Economic Contributions: If 40% of international students stay in Germany, their long-term contributions (through taxes, job creation, and economic activity) could bring in €15.5 billion for the country. Even with a retention rate of only 30%, the country would still earn back more than it spent. If 50% of the students remain, it could mean €26 billion in surplus for Germany.
Example: Suppose Germany educates 100 international students, and 40 of them stay to work in the country. These 40 students will generate €15.5 billion for Germany through taxes, spending, and their professional contributions over their lifetime.
Impact on Pakistani Students
- Studying in Germany: For Pakistani students, Germany’s relatively low tuition fees and world-class education system provide an excellent opportunity. German universities are recognized globally, and the high retention rate means that many international students (including Pakistanis) can stay and work after graduation. This helps Pakistani students get high-paying jobs in a country with a strong economy.
Example: A Pakistani student studying computer science in Germany might not only receive top-notch education but also the chance to stay after graduation and work in the tech industry, which is highly valued in Germany.
- Job Opportunities After Graduation: Given the fact that Germany has one of the highest retention rates of international students, Pakistani graduates who stay will find a welcoming job market. The demand for skilled labor, especially in areas like engineering, IT, healthcare, and business, gives Pakistani graduates a strong chance to secure jobs and contribute to Germany’s economy.
Example: A Pakistani graduate in engineering or IT can find job opportunities in major German cities like Munich, Berlin, or Frankfurt, benefiting from a strong economy and the availability of skilled labor positions.
- Benefits to Pakistan: When Pakistani students return to Pakistan after studying in Germany, they bring back valuable skills, knowledge, and international experience. This can help improve industries back home, foster innovation, and even create new business opportunities.
Example: A Pakistani student who studies in Germany and works in Germany’s tech sector may return home with cutting-edge skills in AI, machine learning, or software development. This can lead to the growth of the tech industry in Pakistan, helping create jobs and boost the local economy.
- Diplomatic and Economic Ties: As more Pakistani students go to Germany for higher education, it strengthens the relationship between Pakistan and Germany. This can lead to more scholarships, research collaborations, and business opportunities in both countries, benefiting future students from Pakistan.
Example: A Pakistani student who builds professional connections in Germany may open doors for future partnerships between German companies and Pakistani businesses, helping both nations grow economically.
- Support for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Germany offers a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, and Pakistani students with an entrepreneurial mindset can benefit from it. There are numerous initiatives, accelerators, and start-up hubs in Germany that support international students in turning their business ideas into reality.
- Example: A Pakistani student with a background in software engineering might develop a tech startup in Germany, supported by funding and mentorship from German start-up incubators, potentially leading to a successful global business.
- Long-Term Career Stability
With Germany’s strong job market, particularly for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates, Pakistani students who stay in Germany after completing their studies can achieve long-term career stability, especially since Germany is known for its high demand for skilled workers in these fields.
- Example: A Pakistani student studying data science who stays in Germany could secure a permanent position with one of the numerous tech firms based in cities like Berlin, Munich, or Hamburg, providing them with financial security and career growth.
- Enhanced Research and Development (R&D) Opportunities
Germany is home to some of the best research institutions in the world. Pakistani students studying in Germany have the opportunity to be part of groundbreaking research in various fields like technology, medicine, and environmental science, which can boost their career prospects.
- Example: A Pakistani student studying biotechnology might have the opportunity to work on research related to bioengineering or sustainable agriculture, which can contribute to innovation both in Germany and Pakistan.
Conclusion
Germany’s investment in international students, including those from Pakistan, brings numerous benefits. Beyond the financial contributions to the German economy, it provides Pakistani students with educational and professional opportunities that can significantly improve their careers. It also has a broader impact, strengthening international relations, fostering innovation, and supporting the economic development of both Germany and Pakistan.