Case studies in AID contributions to human resource development

It is a sequel to a concept paper on human resources which suggested actionable AID programs to fulfill the goal of "creating new options for the populace." Based on interviews of two dozen AID officers, who were nominated by their peers as experts on one or more countries, this study searched for general principles revealed in specific country-settings where AID programs existed for at least a decade. The report on each country includes a brief summary of the size and scope of U.S. assistance, as well as a comment about its significance to the country"s overall development scheme. For purposes of comparison the ten cases are divided into three categories: large program and moderate population, large program and large population, and moderate program. The study concludes that most programs lacked focus in trying to improve the human condition, both the material and mental well-being of the majority were considered beyond the reach of AID programs. This is evident in the lack of interest, until recently, in data on rural employment, income distribution, nutrition, and other measures of equity within the society.