In a joint effort to bolster data literacy and elevate the quality of decision-making processes, the UK government and the Ghana Statistical Service have unveiled the groundbreaking International Data Masterclass in Ghana. This initiative aims to cultivate excellence in data analysis and interpretation among senior leaders, acknowledging the pivotal role data plays in shaping informed policies.
With the global shift toward a data-centric landscape, the UK is dedicated to instilling a culture within government that relies on robust data insights, ensuring inclusivity in decision-making processes.
The International Data Masterclass in Ghana is designed to enhance data and analytical literacy among non-analytical leaders and future government figures, urging them to prioritize data and evidence in their decision-making frameworks.
This comprehensive program will cover diverse topics ranging from data analysis and data science to data visualization, equipping participants with essential skills to navigate the intricacies of today’s data-driven world.
The masterclass offers a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from case studies and keynote presentations by prominent data and statistics experts, including Ghana Government Statistician Professor Samuel Kobina Annim and UK National Statistician Sir Ian Diamond.
Keith McMahon, Deputy British High Commissioner, highlighted the importance of understanding data language for evidence-based decisions, emphasizing the masterclass as a pivotal tool to foster a culture of data and analytical literacy, thereby contributing to impactful policy formulation.
During the launch, Dr. Faustina Frempong-Ainguah, Deputy Government Statistician, stressed the significance of senior government officials enrolling in the program to embed data-driven decision-making within their organizations. The course aims to empower leaders to utilize data effectively in decision-making, policy crafting, and communication to drive national development.
While the primary target audience comprises non-analytical leaders and future government figures, the course is open to all management-level professionals and offers a refresher for analytical individuals. Scheduled to commence on Monday, 4th December 2023, the course will be accessible globally at no cost via the UN Learning Hub, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making with an inclusive approach.
The International Data Masterclass, developed by the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) in collaboration with various entities including the United Nations Statistics Division and the Ghana Statistical Service, features keynote talks by heads of national statistics departments and experts in data and analysis.
Underpinning the UK-Ghana partnership, this initiative aligns with the UK’s commitment to leveraging robust data insights for informed decision-making. The partnership extends support to various statistical initiatives, including the 2021 Population and Housing Census and the modernization of statistical systems, aimed at enhancing data quality and value for national development.