SHARJAH: The inaugural ‘Regional Data and Community Development Forum’, organised by the Department of Statistics and Community Development on October 9-10, will highlight sustainability and urban planning and development.
Government officials, global business leaders, and leading data experts will come together to explore the future of data-driven development, focusing on enhancing quality of life and tackling key global challenges.
Themed ‘Driving Change’, the two-day event at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre in Sharjah will also cover vital sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, business, and technology in over 60 sessions, including 18 thought-provoking talks, 20 expert-led panel discussions, and 24 specialised workshops.
An accompanying exhibition will highlight the latest advancements in data utilisation, with more than ten organisations showcasing state-of-the-art technologies and innovative solutions.
The ‘What Do Numbers Reveal About Community Satisfaction?’ session on D
ay 1 at the main stage will focus on how data can be leveraged to enhance community well-being. Experts will highlight how big data, surveys, and market research reveal the factors that contribute to enhancing well-being and happiness. Speakers will discuss the role of data in shaping policies and resource allocation for comprehensive development while also addressing how data can support quality of life strategies, aiming to create a clearer roadmap for improving public services.
The main session on Day 2, titled ‘Cities of Tomorrow: Data Integration for Sustainable Development,’ will address the challenges posed by growing populations and evolving urban lifestyles. Panellists will explore data’s critical role in shaping smarter, more sustainable cities. Esteemed speakers will deliberate who drives urban expansion and how governments can proactively design the cities of tomorrow.
Speakers will explore future cities’ challenges and opportunities, focusing on global best practices in sustainable urban planni
ng. It will underscore the critical importance of data in designing scalable infrastructure, transportation systems, and essential services while highlighting the pivotal role of data analysis in shaping future cities.
In the sustainability domain, the ‘Data and the Economy of Sustainability’ session on Day 2 will examine how advanced data analytics can accelerate the transition towards a sustainable, circular economy. Speakers will discuss how data can be utilised to optimise resource management, develop alternative energy solutions, and foster innovative waste recycling technologies.
They will highlight the tools and techniques essential for creating an environment that addresses pressing environmental challenges and the need to balance economic growth with environmental preservation. The session will also examine how strategic data investments can aid in crafting eco-friendly policies and track progress towards sustainability targets.
Amid rising concerns about natural disasters, the session ‘Data-Drive
n Solutions for Mitigating Natural Disasters’ on Day 2 will explore AI’s potential to predict such events accurately. Experts will discuss whether AI can reliably forecast disasters or whether caution is needed to avoid over-reliance on technology for critical decision-making.
The session will examine trust in AI models, the implications of biases on data analysis, and the crucial role of public-private partnerships in developing innovative tools to tackle climate challenges. The discussion aims to establish a clear roadmap towards a safer and more sustainable future.
The forum will also host lively discussions on other vital topics related to data. The session ‘Successful Censuses: Cases from the Region’ will emphasise the importance of demographic data in effective policy development. Meanwhile, the panel ‘Integrating Youth in the Data Industry’ will focus on the pivotal role of younger generations in the data-driven era.
This session will underscore the necessity of equipping youth with digital skills,
ensuring their active involvement in building smart, sustainable communities with enhanced living standards.
Another prominent discussion, ‘Data Literacy: The Key to Future Success’, will focus on the critical importance of data literacy across various sectors. It will explore how mastering data analysis can empower individuals and organisations to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and maintain a competitive edge.
Source: Emirates News Agency
