In this new episode, we explore a new way of understanding development outcomes across a lifetime: the Human Capital Index Plus (HCI+).

A child born today in Sub-Saharan Africa could earn nearly 70% more over their lifetime, if health, learning, and work systems functioned differently. So what’s holding that future back?

Joined by Norbert Schady, Chief Economist for the People Vice Presidency at the World Bank Group and Dr. Zainab Kwaru Muhammad-Idris, President of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria, the conversation unpacks what the HCI+ measures, why Sub-Saharan Africa faces a deep human capital crisis, and how some countries and programs are already beating the odds.

The People First podcast is available online, on Spotify, and on Apple Podcast. For more updates, follow us by subscribing, and don’t forget to rate and comment on this episode.

Sequences

00:00 Introduction

01:31 Africa’s demographic turning point

02:29 Building human capital beyond schools and clinics

04:18 Human capital crisis and data gaps in Sub-Saharan Africa

07:59 Home as the first classroom and community-based models

11:39 Conclusion

About People First Podcast

People First Podcast provides a human angle to concrete development topics as they affect people in Western and Central Africa. It also features World Bank Group projects and initiatives. Join us for a sustainable and inclusive development!

About World Bank Group

The World Bank Group is one of the world's largest sources of funding and knowledge for low-income countries. Its five institutions share a commitment to reducing poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development.

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