Beverly Harris Collaboration in Statistics: The Case of St. Kitts and Nevis NSDS Workshop Anguilla...

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OUTLINE

IntroductionRole and functions of the DepartmentChallengesBenefits of CollaborationRecommendations

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Introduction

“Coordination among statistical agencies within countries is essential to achieve consistency and efficiency in the statistical system.”

Source: Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics

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Role of Statistics DepartmentThe St. Kitts and Nevis Department of Statistics

is charged with the responsibility of:Collecting, compiling, analyzing, abstracting and

publishing statistical information.Collaborating with government departments and

local authorities in the collection, computation and publication of statistical records of administration ( admin records)

Taking any censuses in the country.Generally to organize a coordinated scheme of

statistics and intelligence pertaining to the country

Underpinning all of the above is the assurance of confidentiality secured by ordinance.

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Mission

To produce timely, reliable and accurate data relating to the population, resources,

economy, society and culture.

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VISION

To be a key provider of good quality information and in so doing raise the level of consciousness of the people of the Federation

in matters relating to Statistics.

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Collaboration with all Players is

KEY

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BENEFITS OF COLLABORATIONIn keeping with the principle 8 of official

statistics the department of statistics seeks collaboration not only at the inter-ministerial level but at the local, regional and international levels.

We have collaborated with a number of agencies over the years, creating synergies within and beyond, particularly in relation to the sharing and comparing of information.

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“Bilateral and multilateral cooperation in statistics contribute to the improvement of systems of official statistics in all countries.”

Source: Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics

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Collaboration Ensures:Proper application of methods in keeping

with international standardsBetter use of informationEfficient use of administrative reportsAn integration of information servicesBetter co-ordination with stakeholdersRationalization of existing resourcesInstitutional strengthening

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BENEFITS ALSO ENSURESImplementation of a dissemination schemeMore Efficient use of ICTA Shared system of education and trainingCollaboration could also be the vehicle for

creating a dissemination plan that is holistic in nature and encompasses all suppliers and users.

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CHALLENGES

Statistical concepts and standards often not understood or adhered to

In some instances there is a lack of statistical awareness and capability.

Timeliness and completeness of data.The existence of incomparable and

inconsistent data sets.

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CHALLENGESAbsence of an auditing mechanism to verify

reliability and accuracy of official statisticsDecentralized approach creates

fragmentation and bottlenecksInaccuracy and incompatibility of collected

dataInadequate technologyLow response rate to some Surveys.

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RECOMMENDATIONSEstablishment of an advisory committee or

technical working groupImprove and expand where possible the

department’s cooperation among ministries, departments, agencies etc in terms of data sharing

Improve coordination among donor agenciesOngoing and regular communication with

agencies that provide data

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RECOMMENDATONS

Continued engagement with the donor agencies re standardization of concepts , classifications, methodologies and definitions and training opportunities.

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‘The use by statistical agencies in each country of international concepts, classifications and methods promote the consistency and efficiency of statistical systems at all official levels.”

Source: Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics

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Harmonize across the service the use of codes and classifications, processes etc. used in collecting data

Mandatory reporting from line ministriesEstablishment of a core set of data

required from each department at a specified date. surveys.

Improve the relationship with private sector to enhance timely reporting

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RECOMMENDATIONSProvide training in statistics to persons from

line ministries.Ongoing discussions with the suppliers of

information.To maintain the issue of confidentiality

(discussion, forums)There must be institutional reform within all

data producing agencies.Finally there is need to take the lead role with

regard to data in line ministries and agencies.

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FINALLY

“It is the long history of mankind those who learned to collaborate and improved most effectively, have prevailed.”

Charles Darwin

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