Introduction to human resource development versus the right to education: Reflections on the paradoxes of education policy making

Contradictions between the right to education and education as a tool to foster human resource development (HRD) and ultimately economic growth have moved to the forefront of debates on education policy and practice, within states and in relation to the international agenda on education and development. This introduction discusses the often paradox choices faced by education policy makers in light of those contradictory dynamics. It is argued that a focus on HRD is not only a legitimate education policy objective at national government level, but it can also have an important role to play in securing children's rights and a self-determined life. At the same time, however, education policy design needs to pay strong attention to local contexts and people's aspirations within that context. Ultimately, the realisation of the right to education is not achieved by policy measures alone but will be the outcome of social and political struggles. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.