Introduction to Poverty and Human Capital Economics

Poverty and human capital are central pillars of economic development. Learn the foundational theories necessary to analyze why certain populations struggle and how effective investment in people drives economic growth. By the end of this course, you will be able to critically analyze current economic policies aimed at improving living standards and fostering skill development. You will gain a solid understanding of the complex relationship between health, education, and national productivity. What you'll learn: * Understand the fundamental definitions of absolute and relative poverty and their societal impacts. * Analyze the core components of human capital, including health, education, and skill acquisition. * Practice calculating and interpreting key poverty metrics, including the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI). * Evaluate various government policies and international strategies for effective poverty alleviation. * Grasp the economic rationale for investing in education and healthcare as drivers of long-term national growth. * Explore the emerging role of digital skills and lifelong learning in modern human capital development. The course begins by establishing core definitions and historical context for poverty and human capital. It progresses into practical methods for measurement and concludes with an examination of contemporary policy responses and strategies for sustainable development. This course is designed for absolute beginners interested in economics, social studies, or development policy. No prior background in economic theory or statistics is required. Start building your economic foundation today.