Training institutes and training in official statistics in Africa: An overview

The training offer of official statistics in statistical training institutes has been constantly evolving as it adapts to the statistical environment and technological developments. Based on a literature review and the mobilisation of curricula and programmes offered by statistical training centres in Africa, this paper presents the current situation of training in official statistics as well as the challenges to be faced. Despite harmonisation efforts, there are still differences between language areas and training types. Engineer and vocational statistical training are better suited to the needs of National Statistical Institutes than university training. It is essential that the training of statisticians is strategically thought out so that they can be reactive and dynamic in the face of changes and upheavals they will be confronted with in the context of data revolution and big data. Their training should reinforce the statistical literacy dimension with a view to reducing the gap between producers and users.