Barriers to Mentorship for Academic Returnees: Experiences From Pakistan Higher Education

Abstract

Mentoring of faculty is one important aspect in higher education especially for countries investing in training faculty abroad. The study explores the key challenges that young faculty are facing and the expectations following return from doctoral studies abroad. The participants of this study were doctoral graduates who completed studies in UK and USA and working in the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan. A grounded theory approach was used in the theoretical development of the categories of participant perspectives concerning their constraints and expectations. Using both primary data and secondary data from in-depth interviews, participant experiences were explored and analysed. The findings reveal challenges faced by young academics returning to Pakistan. Some of the difficulties are emerging due to the infant higher education system characterised by the lack of a research culture and at a time when academic roles are experiencing change. Remedial mechanisms in form of further mentoring by foreign faculty, installation of research infrastructure and restructuring of existing systems are needed to strengthen research in Pakistan higher education system.