Current events summarize the elements of message, credibility and progress in a high stakes reboot to economic growth. Surely, all three have merit in the scheme of things—from the political to economics of life.
Therefore, let’s step forward and agree that education is the barometer through which people improve their lives. And that continuous improvement is required.
But the argument (ideology) arises on how to pursue and how one conceptualizes that message.
Is it credible? Is it balanced? Is it via the open exchange of ideas through equality of outcome or equality of opportunity?
Either way, the end game relies on which medium is best suitable to determine prosperity.
However, it should be hailed that freedom of great ideas through actionable process that facilitates people to improve on their own is preferable, rather than to expect a (guaranteed) predictable outcome by government in the game for special handouts—what we call footsie exchange.
It is well document and beyond the time for policymakers to grasp the reciprocal understanding that the allocation of resources, incentives and special handouts must be tied to increased economic
output.
It must satisfy the public requirements (as customers) and improve their way of life to achieve prosperity—the better way forward.
Which means, when politicians and non-thinkers attempt to match labour, (physical ability) and tax payer’s revenue (capital), there must be improved economic performance?
It is important to keep this focus, in light of the footsie exchange to economic output, now playing near you.
And in the interest of time, to achieve better days, there must be greater output of labour, and efficient use of capital.
The harmonization must exist—labour, plus capital, equals economic output.
Not, year round special handouts that masquerade dead-end socialist programs in a modern age.
The fact that Saint Lucia’s economy is in the tank, is more likely that not because similar efforts failed previously, but to admit it and learn from it would require wisdom.
The pretence and denial of the obvious in an attempt to orbit aimlessly hoping for the best, will not correct indicators that world class markets and investors look for when decisions have to be made.
Business should consider first and foremost the security of assets and the rule of law. Followed by how prudent the fiscal, monetary policy and taxation impact investments.
But then again, the value of an educated workforce cannot be overlooked, at a time when the driving force of simple day-to-day living and investment, requires communication technology.
This is a digital age where knowledge and the ability to solve complex problems, requires a credible plan and strategic solutions with the assistance of research technology.
The response, I’d guess is a resounding yes! With a clear message that gets delivered; with a clear aim to create technology jobs and gain credibility to drive competition and innovation towards new business.
Equally, faced with this reality, how liberal is Saint Lucia’s national policy towards new business, trade, and productivity, labour and capital investments.
Is the physical infrastructure sound enough for large scale intervention and investment, or is it preferable that big government spending of tax revenue that is synonymous with left wing liberal government will stay alive?
Or, will the preferred option be one that facilitates the conditions to economic prosperity through entrepreneurship.
Evidently, economic output has not trickled down from the top via footsie exchanges and probably will not have any meaningful impact on a wider scale.
What is known: to facilitate economic output is hard work. An adequately educated work force, sufficiently healthy, and willing to participate in the open exchange of ideas through equality of opportunity will help.
If you need more evidence, then take action. Let’s get started.
Melanius Alphonse is a management and development consultant. He is an advocate for community development, social justice, economic freedom and equality; the Lucian People’s Movement (LPM) critic on youth initiative, infrastructure, economic and business development. He can be reached at malphonse@rogers.com
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