Opinion: Peru’s Competitiveness Depends on Talent Development

Fernando Barrios argues in a Peruvian newspaper that Peru will not achieve developed nation status through natural resources alone, but by prioritizing the development of its citizens’ talents. He contends that while public debate focuses on issues like security and infrastructure, a focus on human capital is the key to national competitiveness.

International evidence demonstrates that countries leading in innovation and well-being consistently invest in education, research, and lifelong learning. While Peru has made progress, significant challenges remain including regional disparities in access to higher education, more than 10 regions have coverage below 12%.

Currently, approximately two million Peruvian young people are neither employed nor in education, and the rise of artificial intelligence necessitates a workforce capable of continuous skill development. Barrios calls for a national pact involving the state, universities, and the private sector to focus on building the skills needed for the future economy and ensuring resources are allocated based on demonstrated results, not simply expansion of institutions.