Studies on Investment in Education and Labour Mobility

In a globalized, knowledge-based economy, higher education is becoming a key factor in sustainable development. Romania is investing heavily in human capital development, but faces a constant exodus of highly skilled young people.

This phenomenon generates economic and social costs that, over time, constrain development potential. This paper examines the return on public investment in higher education in the context of labor mobility. It focuses on the discrepancy between the resources allocated and the actual benefits reaped by Romanian society. By combining economic analysis with sociological research, our analysis explores young people's motivations to emigrate. These findings point to the need for active policies that support retention and valorization of graduates. This becomes even more apparent when professional reintegration and the stimulation of return to the country are considered as policy priorities. Strengthening human capital thus becomes a strategic priority.