Dying in silence? Post-return challenges and unheard struggles of Malawian students who did not graduate abroad

This study examines the reintegration challenges faced by Malawian students who returned home without completing their higher education degrees abroad. Adopting a mixed-methods design, the study integrates quantitative data from structured surveys (n = 143) and qualitative insights from in-depth interviews (n = 30). The quantitative analysis employed descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, multiple regression, and structural equation modelling (SEM) to explore the relationships among key variables, including social support, financial stability, and psychological well-being. Results indicate that returnees face significant social isolation (72%) and community judgement (63%), which, according to SEM, negatively impacts psychological well-being directly and indirectly through weakened social support. Economically, 69% reported underemployment or unemployment, with financial stability emerging as a critical predictor of successful reintegration. High levels of psychological distress were evident, with 65% experiencing depression and 71% reporting anxiety, compounded by limited mental health support. Qualitative interviews further revealed themes of identity confusion, stigma, and the need for tailored support services. These findings underscore the necessity for holistic reintegration programmes encompassing social, economic, psychological, and cultural support. Policy recommendations include community education to reduce stigma, targeted mental health resources, and economic empowerment initiatives to enhance the social and financial resilience of returnees. This study contributes to the broader discourse on international education, highlighting the complexities of reintegration for students returning without a degree.