Education ministry launches framework for data flow

Muscat: The Ministry of Education, represented by the Directorate-General of Information Technology, launched on Tuesday the general framework for the flow of statistical data to the Sultanate of Oman Educational Portal. The ceremony took place at the Ministry’s headquarters under the auspices of Saud Al Balushi, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Education for Educational Planning and Human Resources Development.
The framework aims to make the portal more reliable as a complete and cohesive database.
It also aims to provide a mechanism that contributes to and eases the process of data flow between different units in the ministry. Another aim is to improve the educational process, and to create a linking mechanism between the main data producers and the central authority responsible for collating statistical data.
The launch started with a visual presentation on the procedural steps taken to prepare the framework. After that, Balushi launched the framework.
Then, Salim Al Ameri from the Educational Statistics Department presented a paper on the contents of the framework and its overall objectives. The paper touched upon the development of the data collection process, the beneficiaries of the framework, the divisions directly related to the framework, and reviewed the statistical data flow mechanism and the functions of each body in the process of data collection.
“Information is one of the most important resources on which modern life depends, and educational information is connected directly to human development,” said Al Balushi. “Information is the basic guarantee for the effectiveness of educational policies, strategies and plans. Information is also one of the most important requirements of scientific research, planning and decision-making, and implementation in various areas of life.”
He added, “The Ministry of Education has started the establishing of a unified and accurate database through the Educational Portal to be the reference for all the statistical data related to the ministry and to keep pace with modern educational developments. It would provide data on schools, students, staff and administrators. This was one of the most important planning tools.”
Fathiya Al-Sadia, Assistant Director-General for Information Technology and Head of the framework team, said: “The importance of the framework stems from several components, including that statistical data help planners in making decisions.”
It also helps in distribution of powers between departments and individuals to ensure non-duplication. The importance of the framework lies in providing accurate data on the Oman Educational Portal.”