Valuation and Directions of Development of Human Capital in the Republic of Belarus

Abstract

Implementation of the sustainable development model requires a revision of traditional approaches to the concept and valuation of human capital, as its reproduction determines the wealth of a country. Human capital is the basis for the sustainable development of the Republic of Belarus: its preservation and growth affect investments related to the reproduction of capital. Sources of such investments include the net income of the population, funds of organisations and government bodies. The study aims to develop theoretical and methodological foundations for the valuation of human capital it order to determine suitable investment areas. The concepts “human capital” and “investment in human capital” were analysed to identify investment subjects and objects at different levels of the economy. The proposed method for the valuation of human capital relies on the theory of reproduction rent and considers the investment component as a driving factor of its regional and national development. To assess the reproduction of human capital, the study presented a discount indicator as the inverse of the average life expectancy of the population, indirectly expressing its level and quality of life. Data on the socio-economic development of regions of Belarus were examined. Testing of the proposed approach demonstrated that the production of human capital is constant and increases over time. Its sustainable reproduction is affected by the net income of the population and public investments in the social sphere, including education and healthcare. To strengthen human capital, business entities are recommended to invest in improving professional qualifications of employees, as well as their working conditions. The obtained results can be used to develop and implement socio-economic policy at the regional level.