Islamabad, January 29, 2026 — The Pakistan Science and Technology Information Centre (PASTIC), National Center Islamabad, successfully concluded Batch #58 of its two-day hands-on training on “Data Analytics using SPSS”, held from 28–29 January 2026. The training brought together 46 researchers and faculty members from leading academic and research institutions, including Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), International Islamic University (IIU), Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU), and others.
The primary objective of the training was to strengthen participants’ analytical capabilities by equipping them with practical and market-relevant data analysis skills essential for quality research and professional growth.
The first day of the training was dedicated to establishing a strong foundation in statistical data analysis. Participants were guided through essential statistical concepts that form the basis for effective data analysis. The session began with an introduction to the basic principles of statistical analysis, followed by a detailed discussion on different types of data and their characteristics.
Emphasis was placed on data pre-processing techniques, including data transformation methods and the analysis of missing values, highlighting their importance in ensuring data quality and accuracy. Participants also gained hands-on experience in data manipulation using SPSS, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts in a practical environment. The day concluded with an exploration of descriptive statistics using SPSS, enabling participants to summarize and interpret data effectively.
The sessions were conducted by Dr. M. Usman (DBA, PASTIC), who served as the resource person. Ms. Rabia Zafar (Lecturer, Bahria University) provided voluntary and continuous support to participants, assisting them throughout the training sessions.
The second day began with a brief recap of the key concepts covered on Day One, reinforcing participants’ understanding before moving into advanced analysis. The session focused on hands-on practice in inferential statistics, where participants applied various statistical techniques, including different types of t-tests, one-way ANOVA, correlation analysis, linear regression, and chi-square testing. Additionally, participants learned how to import data from multiple file formats and sources, further enhancing their practical data analysis skills. To further enhance applied learning, participants were divided into 10 groups and assigned a case study. Each group successfully completed the task and submitted their analysis, demonstrating effective teamwork and strong application of statistical techniques learned during the training.
During the training, Chairman Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF), Prof. Dr. Mohammad Akmal, visited the session and interacted with the participants. He emphasized the importance of transforming such training programs into practical skills that lead to employment opportunities and scholarships. He encouraged participants to share constructive feedback and highlighted the significance of end-of-training evaluations to assess effectiveness and ensure continuous improvement of future programs. Prof. Dr. Akmal also underscored PSF’s commitment to promoting science, technology, and innovation by equipping individuals with skills aligned to national development and market needs.
The training concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, recognizing the active participation and successful completion of the course by all participants. This training program reflects PASTIC’s continued commitment to capacity building, aimed at empowering researchers and professionals with essential data analytics skills to enhance research quality and contribute effectively to national development.
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