UNICEF donates $30M in survey supplies to Bureau of Statistics

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− Bureau conducting the Continuous Labor Force and Household budget/Living Conditions surveys

− Multiple-Indicator Cluster Survey aims to collect and compile data on situation of children and women, to be used for nationwide decision-making – UNICEF Country rep.

DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, March 6, 2019

The Bureau of Statistics, on Wednesday, received survey supplies worth an estimated $30M from United Nations Childrens Fund [UNICEF] to commence the country’s latest round of the Multiple-Indicator Cluster Survey, this April.

This was highlighted by UNICEF’s Country Representative to Guyana and Suriname, Sylvie Fouet, at the official handing over ceremony held at the Bureau of Statistics’ boardroom today.

Fouet explained that this programme aims to collect and compile data on the situation of children and women, to be used for nationwide decision-making. Fouet also noted the use of new modules, whilst going paperless.

“Guyana is ahead of the curb in the region – they did in Suriname and Costa Rica, but they did not use the full module – so, Guyana is top three in the region to embark on this type of survey this new methodology and going digital,” the UNICEF Country representative said.

According to Fouet, three-week capacity building exercises will commence at the end of March and 21 teams will be launched simultaneously across the country to conduct the survey.

Deputy Chief Statistician, Ian Manifold expressed his gratitude to the UNICEF for providing the necessary tools to conduct the survey, noting that going digital will accelerate the institution’s progress. He explained that during the last census, it was highlighted that the process needed to be conducted in a timely manner.

“We would like our public to understand the collection of the mixed data is very beneficial to the development of Guyana. It is going to speak to how we develop policies and how we push our development… so, I would really like the general public to continue to give us their cooperation over the years,” Manifold said.

He disclosed that officers will be properly attired so that persons can easily recognise the organisation and the nature of their business.

Currently, the bureau is also conducting the Continuous Labor Force and Household budget and Living Conditions surveys.

This international survey is conducted every five years.

Neola Damon.

Image: Goivanni Gajie.