The world is dominated by a drive towards democratic governance, with politicians, especially in the developing world, making expansive promises when campaigning to deliver socioeconomic improvements — from potable water and food security to healthcare, employment and education.
These pledges require the active involvement of smart, dynamic, patriotic, sincere and committed people. But rarely do we hear politicians in developing nations mention the need to produce a critical mass of skilled and knowledgeable workers to deliver these development promises, and then operate and manage them. This demonstrates a weak understanding of the critical role that knowledge and skills play in identifying and solving socioeconomic problems in developing countries. Read more