SCOPE AND FORM OF CENSUS DATA DISSEMINATION IN THE MALDIVES

Hudha Haleem Department of National Planning / Statistics Division

Presentation Outline

 Country profile  Scope of Data Dissemination in Maldives  Determination the scope of Census data dissemination  The way Census Data is Disseminated in Maldives  Mediums that are utilized for data dissemination

Country Profile

     Maldives is a low-lying coral islands scattered vertically across the equator along the Indian Ocean archipelago.

There is an estimate of 1192 islands separated into a series of 26 geographic atolls.

For easy administration these islands are grouped into 20 atolls.

193 are physical inhabited and around 999 are uninhabited.

These islands grouped in ring-shape clusters stretch over an area of 90,000 sqkms of which about only 1% is land.

Determination of Scope

 When the questionnaire of the Census is developed, it is developed with an understand how the data collected in the census are utilized and disseminated.

 In the Maldives, the planners, policy makers and other users use the census data in three levels (Republic, Atoll & Island).  Hence the data and information collected in the Census are disseminated at following levels;   Republic Level Atoll Level (aggregate level of islands)  Island Level (smallest geographic level)

Determination of Scope

 Census Preliminary results are published after 14 days of Census.

 The Republic Level data and Atoll Level data are disseminated within 10 months of Census.  The Island Level Data are disseminated after 1 year.  Analytical Report is circulated after 22 months of Census.

Methods of Data Dissemination

 A number of methods are used in census data dissemination. They are;  Republic and Atoll Level data and information are included in the census book which is published.

 The census database is available in CD  The island level data is available from cd and website ( www.planning.gov.mv

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Methods of Data Dissemination

 In 2006 census, additional measures were taken to disseminate data in a user friendly manner such as:  Dissemination workshops  Wall charts  Leaflets  Graphical hand books  Media related presentations were done  Atoll profiles were shown through TV.

 Customized data is also provided to users and researchers upon there request

Methods of Data Dissemination

 Several countries across the world have adopted DevInfo technology and customized it to their requirements. Maldives began the work last year and is finally close to launch of its customization – called MaldivInfo with its own look, branding and feel.

   over the last 1 year DNP and UNICEF have been working very closely in developing MaldivInfo as a national data dissemination tool. The past four census databases have also been revived Training workshops have been conducted to line ministries and stakeholders.

Maldives human development database Classic View

 Some of the challenges on disseminating the data.

 Have to focus on how to make data users to use the data in the wright way.  Internet facility is not easy to use in the rural area therefore it makes challenging to disseminate through website.

 Lack of technical trained people.

Thank You