Report on joint EEC/ ACP/ECA study on the needs for statistical training in Africa

Abstract

The statistical training programme for Africa (STPA) was adopted at the tenth session of the conference of African statisticians in 1977. Its objective was to ensure that the region has a permanent supply of trained staff for the statistical and other services of governments as well as the private sector. It was conceived as a ten year programme aiming to make Africa self – sufficient in statisticians. Fifteen regional training centers participate in the programme (see annexed list of statistical training centers participating to SSTPA) and a further five European institutes are associate members. The STPA is coordinated by the Economic Commission for Africa.Various constraints prevented the STPA from achieving its full potential in relation to the aim of self- sufficiency for African statistical services. Three main constraints were identified:-