The Ghana Statistical Service and the UK government have launched the International Data Masterclaass aimed at fostering excellence in data and analytical literacy among senior leaders.

As the world becomes increasingly data-driven and recognising the pivotal role that data plays in shaping policies, the UK is committed to fostering a culture across government where decisions are grounded in robust driven insights in order to leave no one behind.

The international data masterclass in Ghana is set to improve data and analytical literacy and help non-analytical leaders and future leaders across government put data and evidence at the heart of decision making.

This comprehensive programme will cover a spectrum of topics including data analysis, data science and data visualisation, equipping participants with the essential skills to navigate the complexities of the modern data ecosystem.

Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from relevant case studies and keynote talks from leading data and statistics experts such as the Ghana Government Statistician, Professor Samuel Kobina Annim and the UK National Statistician Sir Ian Diamond.

Deputy British High Commissioner, Keith McMahon said “Understanding the language of data is key to making evidence-based decisions. Today, I am delighted to launch the International Data Masterclass; an online tool to improve a culture of data and analytical literacy which will contribute to the creation of impactful policies”.

Speaking at the Launch, Deputy Government Statistician Dr Faustina Frempong-Ainguah said "It is our expectation that Senior Government Officials, Chief Directors, Directors will enrol to take this International Data Masterclass programme to: put data and evidence at the heart of their decision-making, gain the required skills to create and support a data culture in their organisation and assignments, understand how they can use data to improve the way they make decisions, craft policies, and communicate compelling narratives to advance the course of our national development". 

She also indicated that  "The GSS is happy to collaborate with the UK Office of National Statistics (ONS) to launch the International Data Masterclass. Our partnership with ONS dates back to 2018, aiming at supporting GSS in our statistical modernisation and transformation agenda to improve the use of quality, relevant and timely data for national development".

While the primary target audience of the data masterclass are non-analytical leaders and future leaders, the course is available to all management level professionals and serves as a refresher for those who are analytical