The Fourth Group Training Course in Application of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to Production and Dissemination of Official Statistics started on 12 May 2008. This is one of the Tokyo based regular programme jointly organised by the Statistical Institute for Asia and the Pacific (SIAP) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).  This course aims to equip participants with different aspects of ICT and how it can be used to increase productivity in all aspects of the operations of a national statistical organization (NSO), more particularly its production and dissemination, and to understand the possible implications on its organization and logistics upon adoption of such technology.

  

Fourteen participants from ten countries are participating in this two month long course. The major thrusts of the course are on the Applicable ICT for Statistical Work and the project work.

The main objectives of this course are first, participants would be trained on the principles of electronic data processing, management and dissemination, and the technologies available, including the use of some statistical software like the Census and Survey Processing System (CS Pro) for data processing.  Second, participants will be equipped with necessary knowledge and skills to become trainers that they would be able to train other staff members in their organizations or other departments upon completion of the training.  Third, participants would share experiences in the use of ICT for statistical operations and build informal networks.

Mr Yukio Ishida, Senior Deputy Director General, JICA TIC, Government of Japan in his welcome address expressed the importance for statisticians to acquire latest knowledge and usage of ICT in their workplaces and Mr
Mr Akihiro Kimoto, Director for International Statistical Affairs, Office of Director-General for Policy Planning (Statistical Standards), Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication wished all participants happy and fruitful stay here in Japan during the course.