By Edward Dankwah
Accra, Nov. 21, GNA – The 2024 Statistical-Data Hackathon Grand Finale, which focuses on the application and promotion of innovative technologies, analytical procedures, visualisations, and easily accessible platforms for data-driven evidence using the variety of datasets on the Statistical Online Bank (StatsBank) is underway in Accra.
The three-day competition aims at contributing to the efforts of halting the cyclical fluctuations in Ghana’s development trajectory.
StatsBank provides academics and researchers with easy access to nationally representative diverse datasets with the aim of optimising resources invested in data collection, including the avoidance of duplications.
The competition comprises six technical universities: Accra Technical University, Koforidua Technical University, Takoradi Technical University, Sunyani Technical University, Bolgatanga Technical University, and Wa Technical University.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the event in Accra, Dr Kobina Abaka Ansah, Assistant Chief Statistician, Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), said in many cases, the data produced remained underutilised, often sitting unused and not serving its potential.
“We believe it is time to encourage the practical application of the data that has already been generated,” he added.
He said the initiative also focused on leveraging key products of the GSS, such as the census data and the sample statistics for which GSS was renowned.
Dr Ansah said there had been a gap between university curricula and industry needs, and by involving students in the initiative, they could leverage data from the StatsBank and other sources to develop products that aligned with industry requirements.
He said that as part of the initiative, the Danish government sponsored a group of students to compete with peers from around the world.
“Recently, they showcased their achievements during the African Statistics Day, demonstrating the capabilities of Ghana on a global stage.”
“We believe that if this project continues, it will eventually result in the development of numerous products that effectively meet the demands of the industry,” he added.
Dr Francis Kweku Siripi, National Coordinator, Statistical-Data Hackathon, said the first-place winner would receive GHS20,000, the second-place winner would be awarded GHS15,000, and the third-place winner would receive GHS10,000.
Additionally, all participants would get medals.
Dr Siripi said the participants would be recognised and awarded mentors for their valuable contributions in guiding and supporting the students in developing these critical products.
He said the students from the various universities were highly talented, such that they had developed a wide range of impressive products, which they observed during the campus engagements.
“Upon closer analysis, it is clear that many of these products, when scaled up, have the potential to address critical issues faced in the country,” he stressed.
Dr. Siripi said participants needed to consolidate their ideas and develop innovative solutions to address the challenges facing the country within 36 hours.
GNA