NAY PYI DAW, Myanmar — An advisory group of census experts from around the world has reviewed preparations for Myanmar’s 2014 census and concluded that the Government is capable of and committed to conducting the exercise in accordance with international standards.

The International Technical Advisory Board (ITAB) for the census met here for the second time from 17 to 19 July, with representatives of the Ministry of Immigration and Population (MoIP), the Ministry of Education, the Central Statistical Office and UNFPA, the United Nations Population.

They discussed the pilot census conducted last April by the MoIP’s Department of Population, which counted 50,000 people in 20 townships across the country. Board members said the results showed that the department has developed the capacity to conduct the census properly, and offered recommendations on the census questionnaire. 

Board members also urged the international community to step up support for the census, Myanmar’s first in over 30 years. A number of international donors, recognizing the importance of reliable data to support the country’s development, have made financial commitments. But there is still a funding gap, and more contributions are needed within the next month to ensure that preparations can proceed smoothly. 

The ITAB is composed of 15 renowned experts with knowledge in census taking, statistical activities and in ensuring efficient data use. Itincludes the directors of the statistics offices of Australia, China and India and the UN Statistical Division, as well as specialists from Sweden, the United Kingdom, the U.S. Census Bureau and the World Bank. 

While in the capital city, the experts also toured the new building that will soon house 200 staff members currently being trained to support the census.