In line with the celebration of the 27th National Statistics Month (NSM), the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) conducted a series of course on Statistics for Foreign Policy Analysis and Research on 25-27 October 2016, 8 and 10 November 2016. As the Institute’s contribution to national efforts to promote statistical awareness, the course was designed to provide participants with a practical understanding of basic statistics that can be readily applied in foreign policy related work, an overview of fundamental quantitative research methods and tools, and the means by which these can be leveraged to visualize, analyze and forecast global issues.[i] The course series was divided into four sub-courses namely: Basic Statistics, Policy Analysis (e-class), Quantitative Methods in Social Science Research, and Quantitative Research for Public/Foreign/Global Policy (e-class). FSI and DFA Home Office Personnel actively participated in the sessions. Foreign Service Personnel at foreign service posts in Riyadh and Dhaka were also able to participate in select sessions in real time through webconference.
The annual observance of the NSM is pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 647, “Declaring the Month of October of Every Year as the National Statistics Month”. The occasion aims to promote, enhance, and instill nationwide awareness and appreciation of the importance and value of statistics to the different sectors of society; and elicit the cooperation and support of the general public in upgrading the quality and standards of statistics in the country.[ii] This year’s theme is “Sustainable Development: Making Statistics Count.”
[i] Couse Series on Statistics and Foreign Policy Analysis and Research Brochure
[ii] PSA Memorandum Circular No. 01-2016 (https://www.psa.gov.ph/sites/default/files/Announcement%20No.%2021%20s.%202016_2.pdf)
