Untapped human capital in sub-Saharan Africa
In the International Journal of Educational Development, Faculty Associate Kenneth Leonard and colleague Dumisani Hompashe (Fort Hare University, South Africa) explore untapped human capital in sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on health, education, and behavioral health services. Their research reveals that despite significant improvements in access to essential services, there remains a substantial gap between the knowledge and actual practice of service delivery among healthcare providers, educators, and families. While this problem is not unique to Africa, it is exacerbated by the region's historically low state capabilities.
Leonard and Hompashe highlight that in many African countries service providers such as doctors, teachers, and mothers possess valuable knowledge and skills that are not being fully utilized. For instance, in rural Tanzania and Ethiopia, well-stocked health facilities are often underused due to absenteeism. In Ghana, pregnant women struggle to find available hospital beds despite the presence of high-quality facilities. In Egypt, qualified teachers prioritize private tutoring over regular classroom instruction.
The researchers distinguish between the "know-do gap" and the "know-do wedge." The know-do gap refers to the difference between what individuals know and what they do, suggesting that increasing knowledge could potentially enhance outcomes. It "suggests that improving outcomes without increasing knowledge or capacity might be possible and, therefore, indicates untapped human capital." On the other hand, the know-do wedge occurs when increased knowledge does not lead to improved performance, indicating deeper systemic issues.
Leonard and Hompashe argue that addressing untapped human capital involves more than just increasing knowledge; it requires understanding and bridging the gaps between knowledge and practice. They suggest that results-based financing (RBF) programs have shown promise in improving service delivery but also raise questions about the sustainability and long-term impact of such external solutions. Ultimately, they write, the need for indigenous solutions that leverage existing skills and capacities within the community is very important.
