Sharjah To Host Over 100 Experts During Inaugural 'Regional Data And Community Development Forum'

Sharjah is set to host the inaugural Regional Data and Community Development Forum from Oct. 9 to 10. Over 100 global experts, officials, and data specialists will attend the event organized by the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD).

These experts will discuss how data can drive development in six key sectors: healthcare, education, infrastructure, sustainability, technology, and business. The event will be held under the theme of "Driving Change" at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre and will feature more than 60 activities focusing on how data can advance progress in the said sectors.

The forum's agenda features 18 talks, 20 panel discussions, 24 workshops, and an exhibition where more than 10 organizations will showcase the latest innovations in data.

"Data allows policymakers to analyze patterns, predict trends, and shape a better future. Rapid digital transformation, particularly in AI, presents challenges and opportunities, making it vital for experts to share best practices to harness its full potential for the benefit of all," Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of DSCD, was quoted as saying by WAM.

"This event will play a pivotal role in advancing the UAE's and the region's sustainable development goals, with expectations for actionable recommendations to build knowledge- and innovation-based economies," he added.

Al Qasimi further said that he hopes the forum will set new standards for using data, especially as the world deals with the challenge of 80% of global data being unstructured and unused.

Through panel discussions, speeches, and workshops, the event will explore how data can improve healthcare, education, and infrastructure sectors, among others, using insights from both regional and international experts and success stories from the UAE and other countries.

The forum will also explore how new technologies, especially artificial intelligence, are changing data analysis and affecting traditional statistical models. It will also cover important topics like data privacy, ethical use, and cybersecurity. Moreover, there will be discussions on how businesses and entrepreneurs can use big data to drive growth and innovation.

The event is being organized in partnership with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), the GCC Statistical Centre, the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, and other national, regional, and international organizations.