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The Second Statistical Forum for Universities and Statistical Associations, held at the Conference Center of the University of Jeddah, continues its activities with two scientific sessions. The first session is titled “The Role of Statistics in Community Development,” while the second session focused on “Innovative Methodologies for Improving the Quality of Statistical Data.” The first session highlighted the importance of statistical indicators in understanding the living conditions of society and their role in shaping public policies and improving the quality of essential services. It also addressed their function as a key tool for measuring welfare indicators, promoting social equity, and guiding future development planning.
The second session focused on national and international experiences in adopting new methodologies to improve data quality, as well as on discussing statistical challenges and mechanisms to overcome them through advanced technological solutions and modern analytical tools. Participants emphasized the importance of research collaboration between universities and statistical offices to develop measurement tools that support the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs).
It is worth noting that the scientific sessions represent one of the main pillars of the forum and come as part of GASTAT efforts to strengthen the integration of roles between the academic and applied fields, as well as to develop the capabilities of national cadres in the areas of statistical quality and decision-making.
 

As part of the activities of the Second Statistical Forum for Universities and Associations, specialized scientific sessions were held to discuss a variety of topics. The third session addressed “Ethics in Statistical Practice and Safeguarding Data Privacy,” while the fourth session focused on “Practices of Statistical Offices in Providing Data to Users.” The fifth session was dedicated to the topic “"Universities’ Contribution to Building Human Capital in the Field of Statistical Work".
The third session reviewed the ethical challenges associated with the use of big data and modern technologies, emphasizing the importance of promoting professional practices that preserve privacy and ensure transparency. In the fourth session, participants highlighted the significance of enhancing transparency by enabling institutions, researchers, and users to access statistical data. The fifth session discussed the vital role of universities in preparing qualified statistical professionals through updating curricula to keep pace with digital transformations.
It is worth noting that these sessions are part of a series of panel discussions held during the forum, with the participation of a distinguished group of experts and specialists, in addition to scientific and research papers. The forum aims to strengthen partnerships between the statistical and academic sectors and to leverage modern technologies in the development of statistical methodologies.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced the launch of the 2nd cycle of Innovation Lab projects, a strategic step aimed at consolidating the role of innovation in developing statistical work in the Kingdom. This follows the success of the 1st cycle, which resulted in a number of pioneering projects that contributed to the advancement of national statistical methodologies and products.
The Innovation Lab serves as an advanced interactive platform that brings together the Authority, researchers, and experts from various academic, governmental, and private sectors. It provides an opportunity for specialists, postgraduate students, and research centers to present innovative statistical projects and solutions that address existing challenges and anticipate future needs by developing advanced methodologies and producing data and indicators that enhance the accuracy of economic and social analysis. GASTAT explained that the launch of the 2nd cycle continues a pioneering journey initiated by the 1st cycle, whose outcomes had a positive impact on the quality of national data and its production methods. It also enhanced GASTAT’s ability to keep pace with rapidly changing economic and social environments at the local, regional, and global levels, in line with international best practices and global statistical standards.
Additionally, GASTAT confirmed that the 2nd cycle will feature expanded participation and a wider range of collaborative fields, creating opportunities for further partnerships with researchers and specialists. It will enable them to develop practical solutions that support decision-makers and align with the Kingdom’s strategic directions under Saudi Vision 2030. GASTAT also emphasized that these projects will play a key role in advancing statistical methodologies and improving the quality of products and services, thereby contributing to strengthening the Kingdom’s position on the global statistical map. Furthermore, GASTAT indicated that the launch of the 2nd cycle represents a qualitative leap in the journey of statistical innovation and a practical step toward fostering a culture of community participation in developing statistical work. This ensures the sustainability and reliability of data quality and enhances the Kingdom’s capacity for evidence-based decision-making.
In conclusion, GASTAT invites those interested in applying for the proposed projects to review all details and participation procedures through the electronic portal (Statistical Innovation Platform) by visiting the following link: https://www.stats.gov.sa/innovation-platform. GASTAT also welcomes all inquiries and requests for information, which can be directed to its representatives via the unified statistical phone number (199009), by email to info@stats.gov.sa, or via the Innovation Lab email at innovationlab@stats.gov.sa.
 

 The opening activities of the Second Statistical Forum for Universities and Statistical Associations, organized by GASTAT, commenced at the Conference Center of the University of Jeddah. The event began with the main panel discussion titled “Universities’ Contribution to Shaping the Future of Statistical Innovation,” featuring speakers Dr. Obaid bin Ali Al-modaf, President of the University of Jeddah. The session witnessed a wide attendance of academics and specialized experts representing academic and professional institutions.
The session discussed the vital role of universities as a key driver in developing innovative statistical methodologies and building national capacities in the field of statistics. It also emphasized the importance of integration between universities and statistical offices to enhance research and development, and to utilize modern technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing in statistical education.
In addition, the session highlighted successful experiences that connected educational programs with practical applications in statistical work, thereby creating opportunities for knowledge generation and the development of statistical tools that respond to societal needs.
The speakers emphasized that universities serve as a strategic partner in shaping the future of statistics by preparing qualified human resources and producing applied research directly aligned with labor market needs.
The discussions focused on the importance of fostering a culture of institutional innovation within academic programs, contributing to the enhancement of educational outcomes and strengthening the Kingdom’s ability to meet its rapidly evolving developmental requirements.
It is worth noting that this session is part of a series of panel discussions to be held throughout the forum, with the participation of a distinguished group of experts and specialists, in addition to the presentation of scientific and research papers. The forum aims to strengthen partnerships between the statistical and academic sectors and to leverage modern technologies in developing statistical methodologies.