The Urgent Need to Increase the Number of PhD Holders in Mexico: A Comparative and Prospective Analysis

In today's global landscape, the generation and application of knowledge are pivotal to the economic and social advancement of any nation. Countries that invest in higher education and promote the development of professionals with advanced degrees, such as doctorates, are better positioned to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. Mexico, as an emerging economy, faces a significant shortfall in the number of individuals holding doctoral degrees compared to other developing nations. This article examines this issue, compares Mexico's statistics with those of other emerging economies, and underscores the importance of increasing the number of PhD holders to drive national progress.

According to data from the World Population Review, Mexico awarded approximately 4,800 doctoral degrees in 2024. While this indicates growth, the number remains modest relative to Mexico's total population and its economic aspirations. This limited output of PhD graduates constrains the nation's capacity for research and innovation.

When comparing these figures with those of other emerging economies, the disparity becomes evident. For instance, Brazil awarded approximately 11,800 doctoral degrees in 2024, more than double Mexico's output. This significant difference highlights the challenges Mexico faces in cultivating a robust base of highly educated professionals.

The presence of professionals with doctoral degrees is crucial for a nation's development for several reasons:

1. Knowledge Generation: PhD holders are trained to conduct research that contributes to scientific and technological advancements, fostering innovation and enhancing the country's competitiveness.
2. Educational Quality: The advanced training of PhD holders enables them to serve as university professors, thereby elevating the quality of education and preparing new generations of highly skilled professionals.
3. Economic Development: Research and development led by PhD holders can translate into new technologies and processes that drive economic growth and create high-skilled employment opportunities.

In Mexico, there is a concern regarding the pedagogical training of university professors. Many educators, while possessing expertise in their respective fields, may lack specific training in teaching methodologies, which can affect the quality of higher education. This issue is exacerbated by the deficit of individuals with doctoral degrees, limiting the availability of highly qualified faculty for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

To integrate into the ranks of the world's leading commercial powers, Mexico must implement strategies that promote the development of PhD holders and their integration into key sectors:

• Encourage Doctoral Programs: Increase the availability of doctoral programs in strategic areas and provide scholarships and financial support to attract more students to these levels of study.
• Strengthen Pedagogical Training: Implement faculty development programs that equip university professors with effective teaching skills, ensuring high-quality education.
• Retain National Talent: Create attractive working and research conditions to prevent brain drain and encourage the return of highly qualified professionals currently residing abroad.
• Linkage with the Productive Sector: Promote collaboration between universities and industries so that PhD holders can apply their knowledge in the industry, driving innovation and technological development.

The deficit of individuals with doctoral degrees in Mexico represents a significant challenge to the country's scientific, educational, and economic development. By comparing these figures with those of other emerging economies, it is clear that implementing policies and strategies to promote the development of PhD holders and their integration into key sectors is imperative. Only through a decisive investment in higher education and the development of highly qualified human capital can Mexico successfully face future challenges and aspire to a prominent position on the global stage.