Statistics in the 21 st Century: The Role of Islamic Development Bank Dr. Abdullateef Bello Director, Data Resources & Statistics Department, IDB December, 2010

Together We Build a Better Future 2 Key Drivers: Globalization S&T Policy in G3 & Emerging economies Technology Advancement (Info. explosion) New Knowledge Frontiers (eg. Nanotech.) Paradigm shift in development landscape Proliferation of initiatives (eg. MDGs) Emerging crisis Growth 21 st Century Time Statistical sciences, research & services Breakthroughs and initiatives Gap Challenges : Unprecedented demand for statistical services to support initiatives Quality data critical Competencies & skills mix Capacities Resources

Together We Build a Better Future 3 IDBs responses to the challenges: 1.IDB STATCAP Initiative (launched in Dec. 2007) Mainstream statistics in regular operations of IDB Finance training, workshops, conference, consultancy services Offer 3 scholarships at M.Sc. level in statistics About US$500,000 disbursed yearly

Together We Build a Better Future 4 2.Resource Mobilization through partnership DFID provides a £2 million in support of the IDBs STATCAP It covers: Yemen, Iraq and Palestine. Regional statistical trainings for Arab countries in the MENA region 3 years period

Together We Build a Better Future 5 3.Support Global Statistical Initiative Contributed $1.15 million to the ICPs Global Trust Fund to finance STATCAP activities of MCs Financed ICP activities in ESCWA MCs

Together We Build a Better Future 6 3.Create synergy & network with NSOs and regional statistical institutions Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on STATCAP on 29 April 2007 discussed issues and challenges facing statistical agencies OIC Statistical Working Group (SWG) Membership: SESRIC, ICDT, ICCI and IDB Harmonize statistical activities to avoid wastage Coordinate data collection activities to avoid duplication of efforts Standardize aggregation methodology to avoid conflicting results

Together We Build a Better Future 7 Conclusion: In 21 st Century Need to communicate statistical concepts to the public transparently and regularly Ensure that statistics are free from politics Promote outreach program in secondary & tertiary level to attract young students to study statistics. Revamp statistics course contents to broaden their scope and make statisticians relevant in 21 st century Invest more in STATCAP and address challenges facing both data producers and users Enhance cooperation and coordination of statistical activities at national and global level

Together We Build a Better Future 8 Thank you