The quality of human capital and prospects for rural development

The quality of human capital among rural residents, their entrepreneurial abilities, and their capacity for innovation play a pivotal role in creating a conducive environment for the sustainable development of rural areas. These areas are strategically significant for societal advancement and possess a multiplier effect on national economic development. A study conducted in 17 rural areas of the Tyumen region found that the low quality of human capital is one of the main weaknesses of regional development. This article aims to identify the key factors influencing the human capital in rural areas of the Tyumen region and to provide comprehensive recommendations for improving it. In July 2021, 90 semi-structured interviews were conducted with heads of municipal districts and rural communities, the municipal authorities, entrepreneurs, and rural residents. The interview results were analyzed by experts using the SWOT analysis principle. The key factors that influence territorial development were identified, including strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The relationships between these factors have also been investigated. The quality of human capital in the region is linked to 14 additional factors, with 5 of these factors identified by experts as posing threats to regional development and 9 identified as providing opportunities. Based on the data obtained, recommendations for managing the socio-economic development of the region are proposed. The findings may be of interest to regional development researchers and government officials for implementation in rural development programs.