The Ministry of Sustainable Development, in cooperation with the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), held a workshop on methodologies for calculating indicators related to Sustainable Development Goal 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure, with the participation of representatives from relevant government entities.

The workshop is part of a series launched by the ministry to cover all seventeen Sustainable Development Goals, as part of its plan to update SDG indicator data. The aim is to enhance national statistical capacity, develop monitoring and analysis mechanisms, improve data exchange, and raise data quality.

The session focused on indicators related to sustainable infrastructure, expanding industrial output, and promoting innovation. It included measurements such as the industrial sector’s share of GDP, the rate of industrial employment, access to telecommunications services, and research and development spending. Participants examined calculation methodologies and coordination between responsible entities to ensure the quality and sustainability of data flow.

The workshop was attended by approximately 40 statisticians and specialists from various government agencies, along with representatives from United Nations organisations and international agencies responsible for Goal 9. UNIDO representatives were present in person, while participants from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) joined virtually.

At the conclusion of the workshop, participants emphasised the importance of accurate and up-to-date data in supporting decision-makers and shaping national policies related to infrastructure, industry, and innovation. They noted that advanced coordination among relevant entities would enhance Bahrain’s readiness to submit accurate national and regional progress reports in this vital area, contributing to comprehensive and sustainable development. Representatives of the international organisations also commended the Kingdom’s efforts in supporting industry and innovation, as well as its commitment to improving data quality.