Dual fragility in motion: Rethinking brain migration through the Uganda–Türkiye higher education corridor

This study explores higher education mobility between Uganda and Türkiye as a case of South–South academic exchange between structurally fragile systems. Framed by four theoretical strands—educational diplomacy, brain circulation, South–South cooperation, and the novel concept of dual-fragility brain migration—the study investigates whether Ugandan students in Türkiye experience brain drain, gain, or circulation. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were drawn from 95 survey responses, interviews with Ugandan PhD returnees, and institutional statistics. Findings reveal that while most students remain in Türkiye during study, the majority of graduates—particularly PhD holders—return to Uganda and reintegrate into academia. However, reintegration challenges and limited post-study collaboration constrain long-term developmental impact. The study concludes that dual-fragility partnerships demand tailored policy design to avoid replicating Global North migration outcomes. It recommends co-managed reintegration frameworks, bilateral alumni networks, and collaborative research platforms to foster sustainable academic mobility and South–South human capital exchange.