Challenges of data collection in developing countries – the Pakistani experience as a way forward

Issue title: Global Statistical Infrastructure – Achievements and Challenges

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Elahi, Asad

Affiliations: Ex-Secretary Statistics Division, Government of Pakistan, Pakistan. E-mail: asad.hibapk.elahi@gmail.com

Abstract: In developing countries like Pakistan data collection is restricted to state institutions. These state based statistical departments face internal as well as external problems. The internal problems include lack of institutional setup and weak infrastructure while the external ones are the low literacy ratio as well as lack of awareness regarding the data collection. However in order to address these problems the traditional approach is insufficient and hence a nuanced approach is needed which is also the prime focus of the paper. This includes providing autonomy to the statistics department, decentralization of data entry, and training of the statisticians, standardization of statistics as well as implementation of PARIS21 recommendations. The paper addresses some of the measures taken by Pakistan like the creation of the Statistical Training Institute, which might be useful in context of other developing countries.

Journal: Statistical Journal of the IAOS, vol. 25, no. 1-2, pp. 11-17, 2008