Strategizing Human Development for a Country in Transition from a Resource-Based to a Knowledge-Based Economy

Abstract

Human development plays a profound role in achieving sustainable development, by utilizing the power of well-educated blue- and white-collar laborers, academics, politicians, and people from every layer of society and the economy. However, there is no single path for human development. Planning, designing, and implementing policies for human development require country-specific approaches, based on unique characteristics such as historical development trajectories, future goals, the commitment of leadership, culture, geography, and climate, to name a few. Such strategies become even further challenging for countries that aim to achieve radical transformations from resource-based to innovation-driven and knowledge-based economies, to achieve sustainable development. In this study, a conceptual model for a holistic human development strategy in line with sustainable economic development was first designed by employing design and systems thinking approaches. Second, under the guidance of this conceptual model, an integrated policy framework for Qatar is proposed to propel the quality and quantity of human capital to achieve economic diversification and, thus, sustainable development. Third, semi-structured interviews with experts and decision-makers in relevant fields were conducted to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed policy framework. As a proof-of-concept, the interview results validated—but were not limited to—the following outcomes. First, the proposed conceptual model has considerable potential to deliver robust, feasible, and effective policies from the initiation to the implementation of strategy development. Second, selectively recruiting highly skilled expatriate professionals under progressive residency policies provides incentives for them to become long-term residents. This would attract global human capital to complement the aim of economic diversification, a sustainable economy, and human development goals. Third, carefully designed university-industry-government partnerships and technical training programs will enable the development of appropriate innovation, professional, and business skills in the local population and facilitate economic diversification goals. Finally, empowering female entrepreneurs and investors will increase women’s empowerment while accelerating economic diversification—and, thus, sustainable development.

Female Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Economy and Development—Challenges, Drivers, and Suggested Policies for Resource-Rich Countries

“…This is mainly due to the dominant cultural context [35], even though Qatari females are energetic about prevailing over such barriers through their significant partaking in Qatar's development. Therefore, Qatar requires a legally binding and long-term policy framework to diversify its economy by increasing the share of manufacturing and service sectors in the economy and embedding women more effectively into the economy [36,37].…”

Driving Factors of Economic Diversification in Resource-Rich Countries via Panel Data Evidence

“…This finding confirms that sustained access to and possession of quality education on a country-wide basis and without any discrimination to fill gaps in diversification policy must be a key ingredient [58]. However, despite the benefits of education noted in the literature, many resource-rich countries have limited levels of education expenditure and attainment [59], although there are recent studies strategizing about education for the rentier states to enable their transition from resource-based to knowledge-based economies [60].…”

The Level of Beef Cattle Farmers’ Readiness for Livestock Intensification Program Surrounding Baluran National Park Area

“…Cooperation with third parties, such as universities, will significantly impact program plans. Mohamed et al (2021) stated that a carefully designed university-industry-government partnership will enable the development of promising innovations, professionals, and skills within the local community. The program evaluation plan must be evaluated periodically by involving a third party; the involvement of a third party in evaluating the program is a wise way because it will provide some neutral input in the program's success.…”