DOHA — The President of the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA), Dr. Saleh bin Mohammad Al Nabit, emphasized the importance of data and statistics in shaping Qatar’s developmental strategies. In a gathering at the Doha Data Forum, he discussed how effective data utilization is crucial for decision-making processes, particularly in achieving sustainable development goals and implementing national priorities.
According to a new release by Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Nabit highlighted the agency’s past experiences in developing strategies in collaboration with relevant authorities. He noted that these experiences have showcased the role of statistical data in identifying opportunities for future development and in understanding developmental necessities. Data has allowed the setting of measurable national goals and the design of efficient developmental programs in alignment with Qatar’s National Vision 2030.
The PSA President further mentioned the agency’s commitment to enhancing cooperation and building partnerships with relevant authorities to strengthen the national data system. He added that focus is also given to capacity building and adopting best practices based on recommendations from the United Nations Statistical Commission and the Cape Town Global Action Plan for Sustainable Development Data, which emerged from the 2017 UN World Data Forum.
Dr. Al Nabit also revealed plans for the ‘Doha Declaration for Comprehensive Data Systems and Effective Decisions,’ aimed at fostering an inclusive perspective that brings transformative changes in the statistical system.
The Director of the United Nations Statistics Division, Dr. Stefan Schweinfest, in a recorded speech, emphasized the critical role of data in driving major transformations. Additionally, the President of the International Association for Official Statistics, Dr. Dominik Rozkrut, spoke about the importance of the Doha Data Forum in supporting digital transformations and data systems. He elaborated on the role of statistics in the age of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
The two-day forum featured 10 sessions covering a wide range of topics, including the role of data in sustainable development, data governance, and technological innovation. Discussions also explored data analytics, visualization, and open data sharing. The forum is set to conclude with the adoption of the ‘Doha Declaration for Comprehensive Data Systems and Effective Decisions,’ which aims to formalize best practices and guidelines for effective data-driven decision-making processes.