TCNPC lures researchers to embrace digital data technology

DODOMA: TANZANIAN researchers have been encouraged to embrace Digital Data Collection and Analysis measures to facilitate data efficiency and save the environment.

This has been remarked by the Tanzania Community Networks Polytechnic College (TCNPC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Jabhera Matogoro, after conducting successful data training sessions in three regions of Mwanza, Morogoro, and Dodoma.

The training equipped participants with advanced skills on KoboToolbox and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The sessions brought together researchers, experts from NGOs, data analysts from Education, Health, as well as Community Development sectors.

“In all three regions, we have had engaging sessions, equipping trainees with modern tools on how they can collect and process data using digital methods.

“And from what we have seen, there is high demand from people about Digital Data Collection knowledge, as such, we urge researchers and stakeholders to join us in making sure that we extend this training to the whole country,” Dr Matogoro says.

He adds: “Data literacy is in high demand as such, a lot of work is needed to reach many people, and this is not a one-man job. We need massive collaboration from stakeholders and individuals.

“We are also ready to receive invitations from different institutions that need to acquire Digital Data Collection knowledge and advanced analytical skills from our well-trained team and are prepared to engage.”

According to him, digital data collection and analysis is also a practical way of protecting the environment since the entire system uses digital, hence no ordinary papers are used.

One of the trainees, Alfred Luvakule from Benjamin Mkapa Hospital, conceded that personally, there are many positive things he has learnt from the training.

“For instance, on how to analyze information, I will use the skill I have learnt to improve on the collection of patients’ information where I work, and this will lead to excellence in service delivery.

“They (trainers) have added extra knowledge to us and have reminded us of some of the essential things that we forgot, which are also crucial when it comes to data management.

“Also, previously, we were using papers in data collection and analysis, but following this training, we will now be using digital tools, which is easier and quicker,” he says.

Also, Penina Charles, a student at the University of Dodoma (UDOM) admitted that the acquired knowledge on data collection and analysis is of much importance to her.

“As a postgraduate student, I have benefited a lot from this training because it will help me to execute my research activities at ease,” Penina says.

However, in all three regions, trainees were updated with practical skills to enhance their digital data collection and statistical analysis skills using KoBoToolbox, ODK, and IBM SPSS (v27).

The ability to collect, clean, and analyze data enables researchers, policy makers, and development practitioners to generate credible evidence that drives impact across sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and technology.

TCNPC therefore calls upon researchers and postgraduate students to strengthen their analytical capacity and produce high-quality, data-driven dissertations, theses, and publications.

Furthermore, TCNPC urges government and NGO professionals to integrate statistical evidence in program design, monitoring, and evaluation for greater accountability and transparency.

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Moreover, institutions and universities have been urged to collaborate with TCNPC in hosting tailored SPSS and digital research training programs aimed at expanding local research capacity.