Abstract

I aim to explore and present innovative training approaches to enhance statistical skills and capacity development across sectors, ensuring a data-driven culture for evidence-based decision-making. My goal is to develop a comprehensive, strategic, and institution-based capacity-building framework that meets the needs of data producers and consumers. I will begin by reviewing current short-term training programs, identifying limitations, and proposing more effective alternatives. These alternatives will be designed to foster the development of data-driven skills across sectors, ensuring that training programs are adaptable to the evolving needs of data producers, consumers, government agencies, and other stakeholders. I will emphasize the importance of statistical skills in supporting evidence-based strategies within government ministries, departments, and agencies. By sharing real-world examples, I will demonstrate how improved statistical literacy enhances decision-making, leading to the formulation of policies based on reliable data. Another key focus will be on leveraging the expertise of the aging workforce through effective knowledge transfer to younger professionals. This is crucial for maintaining statistical capacity and avoiding disruptions. I will discuss strategies such as mentorship programs, workshops, and institutional knowledge-sharing systems to ensure the sustainable transfer of skills from experienced statisticians to emerging professionals. Additionally, I will highlight the need to strengthen skills across the entire statistical value chain, from data collection to interpretation. Tailored training programs will be introduced to build foundational skills, enabling participants to understand and work with data effectively. These programs will be segmented to cater to different skill levels, ensuring practical, responsive learning for diverse participants. Collaboration with academic and research institutions will be explored to develop practical, hands-on training content. By partnering with these institutions, we can create relevant course materials that prepare participants for real-world data challenges. I will also discuss the importance of establishing supportive policies and advocacy to promote statistical literacy and data usage, particularly at lower administrative levels. By engaging stakeholders at national and subnational levels, I aim to create an enabling environment that supports data access, analysis, and evidence-based decision-making. The role of tracer studies will be covered to assess the impact of statistical skills training, helping to identify gaps and refine training programs. I will present a case study from Tanzania's Statistical Skills Development Program to provide practical insights on how tailored training and stakeholder engagement can be successfully implemented. Lastly, I will underscore the importance of gender inclusion, ensuring equal participation from diverse groups such as media personnel, government employees, and private sector actors. Overall, my presentation will demonstrate how innovative training, knowledge transfer, and supportive policies can build sustainable statistical capacity for evidence-based decision-making.