Publication: Namibia Human Capital and Knowledge Development for Economic Growth with Equity
Date
2005-02
ISSN
Published
2005-02
Author(s)
Marope, Mmantsetsa Toka
Abstract
The national development framework
recognizes knowledge, and its application, as some of the
key engines for economic growth and social development.
Namibia seeks to transform itself into a knowledge economy.
Knowledge economies are built on four pillars: an educated
and well-trained population; a dynamic innovation system; an
established information and communications infrastructure;
and an economic and institutional regime that is conducive
to the creation and application of knowledge to promote
development. The study adopts a holistic approach to
education and training as a system, examining the
performance and financing of the system, and the
interrelationship of its components; beginning with early
childhood education and continuing through higher education.
The latter is specifically recognized as a key source of
capacity for knowledge creation and application. The study
emphasizes the building of a solid foundation for learning
through quality basic education as an important starting
point towards building a knowledge economy. It also
recognizes the need for a balanced sector development,
including post-basic education and training. The study lays
out a plan for addressing weaknesses of Namibia's
education and training system, with priorities identified.
This study will prove to be an important part of the road
map for Namibia's development and poverty reduction.
What should not be lost in the focus on education and
training for a knowledge economy is the potential negative
impact of HIV/AIDS. Infection rates are among the highest in
the world. This scourge alone can sidetrack, and reduce the
benefits of initiatives to introduce a knowledge economy.
Citation
“Marope, Mmantsetsa Toka. 2005. Namibia Human Capital and Knowledge Development for Economic Growth with Equity. Africa Region Human Development Working Paper Series;No. 84. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/36219 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”