A New Look at Development Aid

Theories abound regarding the past failure of development aid. Aid agencies are constantly refining the methods by which they deliver aid to needy nations. Many hope that the UN Millennium Development Goals will succeed where many aid plans before it have failed. But while the plan’s eight goals are all absolutely crucial, Guy Pfeffermann suggests that an important element is missing: management. He contends that in order for Africa to experience lasting economic growth there must be a greater concerted effort to teach young African businessmen and women effective management techniques. In pursuance of this idea, Mr. Pfeffermann has helped create the African Association of Business Schools. He has also undertaken numerous efforts to encourage American business schools to support their African counterparts. His work underscores the important point that successful assistance to Africa will necessarily take many forms, and only a multi-faceted approach is likely to meet with lasting success.