Twenty-five officers from the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection are currently engaged in a Microsoft Excel Masterclass aimed at bolstering data management and analytical skills within the Central Division. This training initiative is part of a larger strategy by the Ministry to reinforce evidence-based decision-making and enhance service delivery across its various departments and field offices.
During the session, Acting Permanent Secretary Selina Kuruleca addressed the participants, highlighting that effective social protection efforts require not only empathy and compassion but also accurate data and comprehensive analysis. She pointed out that the Fiji National Development Plan for 2025 to 2029 emphasizes the need for measurable outcomes, accountability, and evidence-driven policymaking in critical areas such as child protection, gender equality, and social safety nets.
Kuruleca explained that the data collected and analyzed by the officers play a crucial role in forming national indicators that assess government performance and guide policy and budgetary choices. She underlined that proficiency in Microsoft Excel is vital, as it enables personnel to progress from basic record-keeping to conducting advanced activities like trend analysis, performance monitoring, and evidence-based reporting.
The masterclass focuses on equipping officers with vital competencies in advanced Excel functions, data visualization, and process automation. This skill enhancement aims to improve accuracy and decrease errors, ultimately allowing for more strategic thinking and policy analysis. As a result, this initiative is anticipated to lead to significant advancements in service delivery and positively influence the well-being of communities across Fiji.