Journal of Knowledge-Research Studies

Validation of a Model for Retaining Academic Human Capital in the Face of Elite Migration: A Structural Equation Modeling Study Based on the Perspectives of Talented Postgraduate Students

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD Student in Human Resource management, Department of Management, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Management, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to validate a conceptual model for retaining academic human capital in the context of elite migration, based on the perspectives of talented postgraduate students at the universities of East Azarbaijan Provience.
Methodology: The study was applied in nature and employed a descriptive–survey design. The statistical sample consisted of 217 talented postgraduate students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a 65-item questionnaire and analyzed with SmartPLS 3 software. Reliability and validity were assessed  through Cronbach’s alpha, composite reliability, and convergent and discriminant validity indices.
Findings: The proposed model demonstrated acceptable reliability and validity, and most of the hypothesized relationships were supported. In the final model, motivational–psychological factors (academic satisfaction, sense of belonging, and study–life balance), social–supportive factors (integration into the academic community and strong peer interactions), and institutional policies (employment support  and a positive organizational culture) significantly reduced migration intentions. Conversely, managerial–executive weaknesses, structural–economic instability, and socio-political factors emerged as major push factors. Notably, all indicators related to effective teaching and learning, as well as several intrinsic motivational and infrastructural items, were removed from the final model.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that, contrary to much of the Western literature, educational and instructional factors are not decisive in retaining talented students in Iran. Instead, economic, managerial, and socio-political conditions play a more dominant role in shaping migration intentions. Therefore, policy strategies should prioritize improvements in livelihood conditions, employment opportunities, and institutional trust rather than focusing solely on instructional reforms.
Value: This study represents one of the first systematic attempt in Iran to validate a comprehensive indigenous model of academic talent retention using a combined meta-synthesis and PLS‑SEM approach.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References
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Journal of Knowledge-Research Studies
Volume 5, Issue 1 - Serial Number 15
March 2026
Pages 63-98
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