The GCC Marathon (Datathon), which saw the presence of a number of GCC experts specialized in the statistical field, concluded on Sunday 3rd November 2019.
The seven-day event is considered to be the first event of the second Gulf Statistics Forum, which will be hosted by the Sultanate of Oman from period of 9-10 December 2019.
The event started (started) with an advance course on the techniques of data analysis and data science for the participants, organized by GBM Company, followed by a competition for the participants to create IT solution in the statistical sector.
Addressing the concluding ceremony, Eng. Suleiman Bin Abdul Rahim Al-Zadjali, General Director of Information Technology at the NCSI, Chairman of the Supervisory Committee of the Second Gulf Statistical Forum, said, "The participants were able to familiarize themselves with the various techniques in the field of data and information handling and analysis, as well as hone their skills in this field."
"The participants were keen to benefit from the expertise and tools provided via the event. The events were the results of outstanding effort and perseverance that had contributed to the success of the Gulf Datathon Muscat," he added.
Al-Zadjali also stated that "In recognition of these exerted efforts, NCSI and GCC Statistical Centre are pleased to invite the participants of GCC Datathon to participate in the second statistical forum scheduled to be held in December in Muscat".
He concluded his speech by thanking GBM Company for its cooperation and support to host the Datathon, as well as the jury committees, the supervising committee of the second Gulf Statistical Forum and the other working teams for their efforts too.
Adi Abboud, General Manager of GBM Company delivered a speech saying, "The statistical data is a tool for planning and guidance that plays a critical role in reducing random development and imbalance in the growth of various sectors. It also gives preference to development planning in the presence of a statistical body that is capable of analyzing the resources and possibilities available in different sectors"
He added: "GBM Company in Oman is pleased and honored to cooperate with NCSI, the public, and private sector organizations to spread the culture of taking decisions based on facts proven by data".
He pointed out that GBM has trained participants in data analysis tools, machine-learning algorithms and how to deal with challenges by using the designing way of thinking.
The panelists, lecturers and participants of the Datathon were awarded in the same function.