Human resource development and growth: improving access to and equity in the provision of education and health services in South Africa

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the importance of improving access to and equity in the provision of essential services such as education and health for enhancing human development. A major constraint to accelerating and sustaining economic growth in South Africa is the shortage of skilled human resources. Human capital formation (through appropriate education, training and health) is vital for growth. However, for sustained growth to reduce poverty and unemployment, human capital of a ‘higher order’ than the system is currently producing, in both quantitative and qualitative terms, must be generated. The paper reviews progress in the education and health sectors and identifies the challenges. It stresses the need for policy makers to recognise the link between education and health outcomes and the provision of clean water, adequate sanitation, cheap and accessible transport and effective nutrition programmes. Addressing only the education and health services is unlikely to lead to optimal outcomes in these sectors.

Acknowledgments

The author acknowledges helpful comments from Miriam Altman, Marina Mayer, Renette du Toit and two anonymous referees. Funding for the project on which this paper is based was provided by the Services Sector Steering Committee of Directors-General of the Government of South Africa. The provision of financial resources and guidance by the Committee is gratefully acknowledged.