Abstract

PIP: An economic growth rate substantially higher than the population growth rate is needed to maintain an healthy economy. In South Africa over the past decade, however, population growth has outpaced economic growth. The levels of unemployment and poverty have accordingly increased since employment opportunities are simply not created fast enough to keep up with demand. The population growth rate must be reduced to prevent total social decline. All sectors including the business sector, the public sector, churches, women's organizations, and all people must work together to prevent such a catastrophe. In particular, living standards must be improved in South Africa especially for developing groups if fertility is to be reduced. In the business sector, the majority of responsible executives in South Africa realize that improving their employees' quality of life is an investment in their own business and the key to success. Apart from in-service training and the development of industrial skills, most successful businesses also pay attention to the full spectrum of human development such as adult literacy education, primary health services, manpower development and training, housing projects, and family planning. All aspects which could improve the quality of life of employees are being addressed and there is ample evidence that such investments are paying off. Business executives are also helping change the perceptions of their employees with regard to family size. The author describes how the business sector can promote the population development program (PDP) and what the PDP benefits are for the business sector.