SESRIC participated in the DataFest 2025, organized by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on 11–12 November 2025 at the Pak–China Friendship Centre in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Building on the success of the previous year’s DataFest 2024, this year’s event was held under the theme of “Harnessing the Power of Data for Inclusive Growth and Innovation.” It brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from National Statistical Offices (NSOs), international and regional organizations, government institutions, academia, and the private sector, to promote data-driven transformation and strengthen the global data ecosystem.

After the inauguration of the DataFest 2025 by H.E. Mr. Ahsan Iqbal CHAUDHARY, Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives of Pakistan, the event started with the welcoming remarks of Mr. Awais Manzur SUMRA, Secretary Planning, H.E. Dr. Naeem Uz ZAFAR, Chief Statistician of PBS. In his inaugural address, H.E. Mr. CHAUDHARY underlined the importance of data driven policies, and building capacities of the youth in understanding and utilizing data in Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). H.E. the Minister especially welcomed the participation of international agencies including SESRIC for the support and attendance.

The two-day festival featured keynote speeches, expert panel discussions, workshops, training sessions, exhibitions, and networking events, focusing on critical themes such as the economy, environment, equity, energy, and digital transformation (E-Pakistan). The sessions explored how data integration, AI, and modern analytics can contribute to effective governance, sustainable development, and informed policymaking.

SESRIC exhibited its work through a dedicated kiosk provided by the PBS, where the Centre showcased its major statistical activities and initiatives, including the OIC Statistical Commission (OIC-StatCom), OIC Statistics Database (OICStat), and various flagship publications and reports. The SESRIC exhibition stall attracted wide interest from delegates, providing an opportunity to exchange views and discuss potential collaborations with National Statistical Offices and development partners from across the OIC Member States. Through its participation, SESRIC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting data-driven innovation, capacity development, and international cooperation among OIC Member States.

For more details on the DataFest 2025 please visit here

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