NPC to unveil database strategy in Q4, institutes training centre for data and announces 'Qatar Data Hackathon'

The National Planning Council (NPC) will unveil its strategy for database and statistics by the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024, while it has instituted National Training Centre for Data and Statistics and announced 'Qatar Data Hackathon'.

"We are currently working on preparing the National Data and Statistics Strategy, which is scheduled to be launched during the last quarter of this year," NPC Secretary-General Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak al-Khalifa told the Second Doha Data Forum for innovation in sustainable development.

The strategy would address the pressing needs in the era of the digital revolution, given the pivotal and important role of data and statistics in making informed and sustainable decisions, he said in his inaugural address at the forum, which will conclude today.

The proposed strategy, based on developing an integrated system for data management, is not merely a regulatory tool, but rather a comprehensive vision for leading the national data and statistics agenda, according to him.

"It is a new step towards achieving integration among various sectors and providing the accurate information and data necessary to support planning and development processes, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030," al-Khalifa said.

The strategy aims to develop an advanced infrastructure that provides access to high-quality and secure data, while enhancing data governance mechanisms and ensuring privacy and security.

"This initiative is an open call for innovation, as we seek to enable national entities to provide smart solutions and make the most of modern technologies as artificial intelligence and advanced analytics," he said.

On the National Training Center for Data and Statistics, he said through this, NPC aims to develop national cadres capable of exploiting the power of data and statistics and building national capabilities in various data fields.

(The centre) will “serve as a station for continuous learning and an incubator for developing advanced skills in data management and analysis, machine learning, advanced analytics, and modern data technologies," he said.

Elaborating on 'Qatar Data Hackathon', al-Khalifa said this initiative is not just a competition, but rather a platform to empower young talents and stimulate innovative thinking to find practical solutions to the challenges facing various sectors.

"Through this initiative, we will work to highlight smart ideas that contribute to improving the quality of life and enhancing performance in various fields," he added.

The event is being attended by experts in official statistics, data and environment science, and geographic information technology from Qatar, and from specialised UN organisations such as the statistics division, Unicef (United Nations Children's Fund), Unesco (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation), ILO (International Labour Organisation), UNDP (The United Nations Development Programme), WHO (World Health Organisation), UNFPA (The United Nations Population Fund), UN Women, ESCWA, the UK Office for National Statistics, Statistics Finland and GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) Statistical Center.