Tanzania's Statistic Experts Urged to Adopt New Technologies

Experts in statistics in Tanzania have been urged to utilize online platforms to learn new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Data Science. This encouragement aims to enhance their competitiveness in the job market as the country moves towards 2030. The call was made by James Mbongo, Acting Director of Coordination, Research, and Statistical Activities at the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The push for adopting new technologies comes as a result of the changing landscape in data collection and analysis. Mbongo emphasized that technological advancements have altered the way data is gathered and analyzed, necessitating statisticians to upgrade their skills. This upgrade is crucial to provide high-quality and accurate information. Statistics form the backbone of decision-making processes in both governmental and private sectors.

The National Bureau of Statistics' role in promoting the use of advanced technologies among statisticians is pivotal. According to Mbongo, statistics are essential for planning development initiatives, monitoring their implementation, and evaluating the successes achieved. The integration of AI, Big Data, and Data Science can significantly enhance the quality and efficiency of statistical data.

The Chairman of the Tanzania Association of Statisticians (TASTA), Abdallah Mhagama, highlighted the association's role in uniting professionals from government and private institutions. This unification aims to strengthen collaboration and improve the quality of statistics in the country. TASTA provides a platform for statisticians to share knowledge, best practices, and advancements in the field.

Despite the efforts to enhance statistical capabilities, TASTA's activities have faced challenges. The association's Vice Chairman, Mariamu Kinabo, pointed out that financial constraints have hindered the organization's ability to convene meetings with members across different regions and districts. The costs associated with travel, accommodation, food, and meeting preparations have impacted the implementation of plans to hold multiple meetings per year.

Currently, TASTA manages to hold meetings approximately once a year due to financial limitations. This frequency is a decline from the initial plans to meet several times annually. The reduction in meetings affects the association's ability to engage its members effectively and discuss pertinent issues in statistics and data management.

The encouragement for statisticians to adopt new technologies like AI, Big Data, and Data Science is a step towards enhancing Tanzania's statistical capacity. By embracing these technologies, statisticians can contribute to more informed decision-making processes. This adoption is crucial for the country's development as it aims to achieve its goals by 2030.

Key points

• Experts in Tanzania are urged to adopt new technologies like AI, Big Data, and Data Science.
• The adoption aims to boost their competitiveness in the job market by 2030.
• Financial constraints have affected TASTA's activities, including the frequency of meetings.