Training Catalog Session Details

This course is designed for technical staff of national statistics offices (NSOs) and central banks (economists, statisticians, data analysts, or data scientists) working on macroeconomic statistics, nowcasting, and/or other data science projects.

Participants are expected to have a degree in economics, statistics, data science, or equivalent experience in data analysis and economic research-including understanding of macroeconomic concepts and indicators. Basic knowledge of statistical software and programming languages like Python or R is highly encouraged. The hands-on parts of the workshop will be Python-based.

This workshop, presented by the IMF Statistics Department, is aimed at country officials from NSOs and central banks who are seeking to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to leverage Big Data and Machine Learning for generating high-frequency and detailed statistics to enhance macroeconomic monitoring and research in the region.

IMF experts will share real world applications based on cumulative experience of the IMF Big Data Center and the High Frequency Indicators for Economic Activity project. The program will comprise lectures and hands-on workshops covering various Big Data applications and machine learning to enhance macroeconomic statistics and nowcasting, offering insights from both producer and user standpoints. Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to present and discuss their use cases, engage in discussions, and benefit from shared insights and experiences.