Two-Day Data Workshop in Quetta to Advance Evidence-Based Policymaking

August 15, 2025
11:46 pm

Quetta – August 15, 2025: A two-day workshop on “Data Interpretation and Use” has started in Quetta, aiming to strengthen data-driven planning and policy decisions in Balochistan. The event is jointly organized by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) at Serena Hotel.

Officials from education, health, urban planning, PDMA, and research institutions are participatng, alongside key figures such as UNFPA Provincial Coordinator Ms. Sadia Atta, Urban Planning Secretary Mr. Umaid Ali Khokhar, Population Welfare Secretary Mr. Zafar Ali Buledi, and PBS senior management.

The workshop focuses on how provincial departments can effectively use PBS’s vast databank, which includes demographic, socio-economic, health, labour force, trade, and macroeconomic statistics. Sessions cover topics such as education, health, living standards, WASH, price indexes, and economic trends.

PBS Member (Support Services) Mr. Muhammad Sarwar Gondal highlighted the importance of accurate data in shaping national priorities, sharing real-life examples of how PBS datasets can inform policy. He also invited stakeholders to attend Data Fest 2025, scheduled for November in Islamabad.

PBS Deputy Director General Ms. Rabia Awan said the initiative will build capacity for evidence-based governance, efficient resource allocation, and sustainable development. Ms. Sadia Atta stressed the role of integrated dashboards and gender-focused monitoring in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Representing the provincial government, Mr. Umaid Ali Khokhar linked the workshop to Balochistan’s Master Plan development, while Mr. Zafar Ali Buledi praised PBS’s role in fostering statistical literacy.

The program includes technical presentations, live dashboard demonstrations, group exercises, and a dedicated data desk to provide instant access to statistics—marking a significant step toward embedding a culture of data-driven governance in Balochistan.