Nukuʻalofa, Tonga – The Tonga Statistics Department is conducting an intensive five-day workshop this week with UNICEF, bringing together key stakeholders to review preliminary findings from the Tonga Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2024 and build capacity in data interpretation.
Running from September 29 to October 3, 2025, the workshop serves a dual purpose: gathering valuable feedback from stakeholders on the preliminary MICS results while equipping participants with essential skills to read, interpret, and utilize the Tonga MICS 2024 reports, data tables, and statistical snapshots.
The workshop has drawn representatives from across Tonga’s public and civil society sectors, including government line ministries, non-governmental organizations, and community-based organizations. Participants represent critical areas such as health, education, justice, environmental protection, gender equality and youth development reflecting the comprehensive nature of MICS data collection.
Throughout the week, participants are engaging in detailed sessions covering various MICS tables, chapters and indicators including child health and nutrition, education and literacy, water and sanitation, domestic violence, child protection, and equitable access to services. The workshop emphasizes hands-on learning, with dedicated review sessions and group work allowing stakeholders to practice interpreting data relevant to their respective sectors.
“This workshop represents a crucial step in ensuring that MICS data doesn’t simply sit in reports but becomes a living tool for policy development and program planning,” noted workshop organizers. “By teaching stakeholders how to read and interpret these statistics, we’re empowering them to make evidence-based decisions that will improve outcomes for Tongan families and children.”
The interactive format includes daily evaluation sessions and opportunities for questions, ensuring that participants can clarify their understanding and provide feedback on the preliminary findings. Group work sessions encourage cross-sectoral dialogue, enabling stakeholders from different organizations to share perspectives and identify common priorities emerging from the data.
The workshop concludes on Friday with final evaluation and closing remarks, leaving stakeholders equipped with new skills and a deeper understanding of how Tonga MICS 2024 data can inform their work in serving Tonga’s communities.