Freetown, Sierra Leone — August 15, 2025: In a major step toward strengthening national data systems and improving child-focused policymaking, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) have successfully concluded a ten-day Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) Pretest and Training of Trainers (ToT) program. The initiative is a key preparatory activity for the upcoming seventh round of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS-7).
The training brought together 32 technical staff from Stats SL’s Demographic Health & Social Statistics and Data Science Divisions. Participants underwent intensive instruction on digital data collection tools, standardized interview protocols, and the full suite of MICS-7 questionnaires. These cover critical indicators such as: Child health and nutrition, education, water and sanitation, child protection, early childhood development, and domestic violence.
The training objectives include equip participants with skills to use modern CAPI technology for efficient and accurate data collection; conduct real-world pretesting of the CAPI system to evaluate usability, cultural relevance, and identify potential challenges; build a team of master trainers to lead nationwide field staff training; and ensure data collection aligns with international MICS standards for consistency and quality.
MICS, developed by UNICEF and implemented globally, is one of the most comprehensive household survey programs focused on the health and well-being of women and children. The data generated from MICS-7 will inform national policies, guide donor investments, and support targeted development programs across Sierra Leone.
The successful completion of the CAPI Pretest and ToT workshop marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey toward data-driven development. UNICEF and Stats SL reaffirmed their commitment to producing robust, reliable, and context-sensitive data to support sustainable progress and improve outcomes for children nationwide.
“This training is not just about technology—it’s about empowering our teams to collect the kind of data that can transform lives,” said a representative from Stats SL’s Communications and PR Unit.
As Sierra Leone prepares for the full-scale rollout of MICS-7, this collaborative effort underscores the country’s dedication to leveraging innovation and evidence to shape a better future for its youngest citizens.
Report by Stats SL Communications & PR Unit