Human Resources Development

The IDB considers investment in human capital as one of the most important ingredients for sustainable development. The various elements which constitute human resources management include education, health, nutrition, population concerns and the socioeconomic role of women. The synergies which result from human resources development are well recognised. Not only is the attack on poverty critically dependent on the provision of adequate access to education and health by the poor, but it is also the key for building technological capability and a critical factor for preserving the natural resource base in the pursuit of development. In this respect, the bank sees itself as a catalyst and mainly assists projects for primary education, vocational training and primary healthcare.

Up to the end of 1415H (May 1995) the total financing approved by the bank stood at ID “1,114.41 million, of which ID 424.39 million (15.4 percent) were approved for projects in health and education sectors. The increasing bank emphasis on human resource development is also evident from the rising share of social sectors in its total financing. This share has increased form 10 percent in 1413H (1992-93) to 18 percent in 1415H (1994-95).

The bank has recently undertaken a study on human resources development in its member countries. This study is currently going through the process of internal review. It contains a set of recommendations which may help the bank in the implementation of its poverty alleviation policies and sharpen its focus on the HRD issues.

Source: Poverty Alleviation in Pakistan: Present Scenario and Future Strategy, Mohibul Haq Sahibzada. Republished with permission.