By Bill W. Cooper
The Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS) has strengthened its partnership with the University of Botswana (UB), a move aimed at enhancing the statistical capacity of Liberians and fostering bilateral relations.
The initiative, announced during a joint press conference held at LISGIS headquarters in Monrovia over the weekend, is expected to bolster the skills of local statisticians and improve data collection and analysis in Liberia.
The partnership, as agreed between LISGIS and Botswana University, marked a pivotal moment in Liberia’s efforts to strengthen its statistical framework between both LISGIS Director General Richard F. Ngafuan and the University Vice-Chancellor David Norris.
Liberia has faced significant challenges in data collection and analysis, which have hindered effective governance and development planning since the end of the civil war, as the lack of trained statisticians has resulted in gaps in vital statistics in the country.
But LISGIS aims to bridge this gap to improve the quality of data available for national planning, as this will, in turn, enhance the government’s ability to address pressing issues such as poverty, health care, education, and infrastructure development.
During the conversation, both leaders emphasized the importance of education and capacity building in achieving sustainable development goals, coupled with improving the country’s statistics House.
The LISGIS Director General, however, highlighted the critical role that accurate data plays in national planning and policy-making, and said, “In a world driven by data, our ability to collect, analyze, and interpret statistics is paramount.
“So, this partnership with your institution, the University of Botswana, will not only enhance the skills of our statisticians who are currently pursuing their degrees but also contribute to the overall development of our nation,” he maintained.
Earlier, Norris echoed these sentiments, noting that the collaboration between his University and Liberia, through LISGIS is a testament to the growing relationship between the country and Botswana.
“Education is a powerful tool for change. By investing in the education of Liberian statisticians, we are investing in the future of Liberia. We are excited to welcome these students to our university and provide them with the skills they need to make a difference in their country,” he added.
Meanwhile, the partnership between LISGIS and the University of Botswana is not only about education; it also represents a strengthening of bilateral relations between Liberia and Botswana.
Botswana, known for its stable political environment and robust economic growth, serves as a model for many African nations, including Liberia, as the exchange of knowledge and expertise through this relationship is expected to foster greater understanding and cooperation between the two countries.
