Statistics for the Future – Continued Cooperation with IUS

The new cohort of students had the opportunity to learn first-hand how official statistical data are produced, how they are used, and why they represent a key tool in decision-making processes.

The welcoming remarks were delivered by Vesna Ćužić, Director of BHAS, who explained to the students the importance of statistics for the country’s development processes, for business operations, and for everyday life. She emphasised that statistics are not an impersonal collection of numbers, but a means of shaping policies that affect all of us.

She also reminded the audience that statistics form part of Cluster 1 in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU integration process. “Without statistics, no negotiating chapter can be closed,” Ćužić stressed, pointing out that progress in reform areas can be monitored only through high-quality and comparable data. She concluded by expressing her belief that among the students present there are future professionals who will strengthen the statistical system of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the years ahead.

Following the introductory remarks, expert presentations were held. Edin Šabanović, Assistant Director in The Sector for Statistical Methodology, Standards, Planning, Quality and Coordination, presented the structure and functioning of the statistical system in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the stages through which data pass—from collection and processing to dissemination to users. He particularly highlighted the importance of quality, standardisation, and user-oriented statistics.

The presentation continued with Alen Mrgud, Head of Department for Editorial and Publishing, who introduced students to BHAS’s key publications, electronic tools, and new data products that will become available to users in the coming period. He also underlined the Agency’s role in supplying official statistical data to Eurostat, thereby ensuring the international comparability and visibility of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s statistics.

The visit concluded with an interactive discussion, during which students asked questions about the practical use of data, digital tools, open data platforms, and opportunities for professional engagement within the statistical system.