Bureau of Statistics hosts 1st Data Science Camp in Guyana

In an effort to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world, the Bureau of Statistics hosted sixteen (16) students from secondary schools across Georgetown during its first-ever Data Science Camp held from August 23 to 25, 2023.
The camp, which was hosted at the agency’s head office, introduced the students to the basics of data collection, analysis, visualisation, and interpretation while fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. The activity forms part of the efforts of the Bureau to foster an interest in data science among the school-aged population.

During the three-day activity, the students were immersed in fun, engaging, and educational exercises and presentations focused on formulating research questions, survey design, sampling, data cleaning, analysis, visualisation, and interpretation.
The students were given the opportunity to conduct a survey among a sample of the organisation’s staff, which was focused on staff well-being in the workplace which allowed them to further develop their interpersonal skills. They were then tasked with analysing the data they collected, displaying it on various graphs and charts, and delivering presentations with their findings.
Among the students sharing their experience was Queen’s College Student, Shabaka Yisrael. “It was a very fun experience and I wish the camp would have lasted longer instead of just three days. I fully understand now the types of data and the scientific data process. I would definitely participate again,” he said.
Precious Bristol of New Campbellville Secondary School shared that her experience was quite fun and that she enjoyed making new friends and interviewing the employees. She added that she learned about data cleaning and data analysis.
This Data Science Camp was not only a learning experience for the students, the Bureau said but also for the itself, since it will lend towards the tailoring of future engagements with the school-aged population. The intention is to make this an annual activity and build on the first experience, expanding to include students from schools in other regions and developing a wider curriculum.
Chief Statistician, Errol La Cruez in his address to the students posited that data is the most valuable commodity in the world. He told them that the future of human civilisation will depend heavily on how well data is used to their advantage.
“It’s important that as future leaders in Guyana and in the world, you develop an understanding and you build that tool kit that is needed, that is vital for your survival in a future that is going to be even more dependent on data and statistics than it is right now,” he emphasised.