The National Institute of Statistics Rwanda (NISR) has started a campaign aimed at exposing institutions of higher learning to statistical information and dissemination tools. The statistics body has already conducted a series of micro-data outreach workshops in different universities and colleges, including National University of Butare and INES Ruhengeri.Odette Mbabazi, the NISR deputy director general, said sensitising students, researchers and academic staff about statistical data and tools available at NISR would facilitate dialogue among stakeholders and open up opportunities for them. She said the body was emphasising the dissemination of micro-data to promote transparency in policy making, improve the quality and credibility of statistical output and support research and teaching in the country.In May, the body launched the National Data Archive as a platform for disseminating survey and census micro-data.“In order to increase the value of micro-data and exchange of information, there is need to recognise the importance of user advocacy and services so that we can adopt innovative and effective ways to further engage them in improving data quality and dissemination,” she said.Mbabazi said during the workshops, NISR introduces participants to the existing data and dissemination tools and policies. The participants are also exposed to hands-on training on how to use the National Data Archive.NISR officials and university participants also engage in user-producer discussions on data access policies and review challenges of using micro-data. Later, they brainstorm to find ways to promote the use of micro-data.“The outreaches are a strong collaborative initiative that will see the emergence of strong research teams, especially in academic institutions,” said the National University of Rwanda Prof. Jean Baptiste Kakoma.
