Migration Intentions of Nursing Students in Ghana: Implications for Human Resource Development in the Health Sector

Abstract

This study examined the influence of socio-economic and demographic variables on the migration intentions of nursing students. It was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Data was obtained through the administration of structured questionnaire to students in three nursing schools. The study was conducted within the context of the neoclassical economic and network theories of migration. Using logistic regression analysis, the findings of the study indicate that salary differentials remain important determinants of nurse migration. Established networks in destination countries also facilitate nurse migration, even though nurses would still take the risk of migrating in the absence of networks abroad. Career progression for nurses and securing better education for children are also prominent determinants of nurse migration. It was also found that being posted to work in a rural area may even serve as a catalyst to migrate abroad, as this was the strongest predictor of intention to migrate. The findings of this study have important implication for human resource development among nurses in Ghana.