NWU Celebrates 35th National Statistics Month: Stat Skills for Data Innovation
To highlight the significance of statistics innovation, Northwestern University celebrated the 35th National Statistics Month (NSM) with the theme “Advancing Data and Statistics through Digital Transformation: A Road to an Empowered Nation” on September 13, at the College of Arts and Sciences Audio Visual Room (CAS AVR).
The program was spearheaded by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in collaboration with the Mathematics Society. It featured a series of interactive competitions emphasizing the importance of statistics across various fields. It provided the participants with an opportunity to commemorate the theme of advancing statistical expertise this year.
The event was facilitated by Fritzie Anne C. Toralba, Mathematics Society President, and Jeslyn Mae F. Colobong, Mathematics Society Treasurer. Additionally, Dr. Yolanda S. Lao, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the essence of statistical literacy and its role in national development.
Furthermore, Dr. Noel T. Lahip, Mathematics Department head, and Supreme Student Council adviser, explained the rationale behind the NSM celebration. In his speech, Dr. Lahip emphasized the future-forward nature of the event, stating, “The Math-lete’s Pioneering the Future Program aims to identify and nurture students with strong mathematical and statistical abilities, foster their problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.”
“Offering a stimulating learning experience deepens their appreciation for this field, preparing them to become future leaders in data science, policy making, and innovation and ultimately contributing to national progress and addressing societal challenges. This program aligns National Statistics Month goals by promoting data and statistics in the digital age, empowering future leaders to shape a more equitable nation,” he added.
The competitions commenced after the opening program, with students participating in various competitions such as StaTikTok, Essay Writing, Infographics and Poster Making, and the Statistics Quiz Bee.
Cris F. Unite, a level-one student from the Nursing Department, emerged as the first place in the Essay Writing Contest. Unite expressed his joy after the win, sharing, “My experience was fun because I got to represent my section. I’m thankful I won first place, and this was my first time joining a contest like this.” Unite’s victory also secured him a spot in the regional competition, where he will represent Northwestern University in the next phase of the contest.
In conclusion, the event successfully engaged students in celebrating the value of statistics in education and society. With competitions showcasing both talent and knowledge, the said celebration achieved its goal of promoting a deeper appreciation for the field of statistics.
