Caribbean Netherlands youth become data detectives in Statistics Netherlands initiative
Young people in Bonaire are learning to navigate the world of data through interactive sessions with Statistics Netherlands. These workshops aim to boost awareness of how statistics shape their lives, from education to well-being, and empower them to use facts over opinions.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Organizer | Statistics Netherlands (CBS) |
| Location | Bonaire (Caribbean Netherlands), later Sint Eustatius and Saba |
| Participants | Around 75 young people |
| Activities | Data detective sessions, mini-research projects, quiz, art contest |
| Themes Covered | Future expectations, healthy eating, education, well-being |
| Upcoming Events | Data-driven art contest at Terramar Museum, school workshops |
| Goal | Increase data awareness and engagement among youth |
Statistics Netherlands (CBS) is the national statistical office responsible for collecting, analyzing, and publishing data on Dutch society, including the Caribbean Netherlands. These initiatives help ensure that young people understand the role of data in shaping policies and decisions that affect their communities.
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Statistics Netherlands engages with young people in the Caribbean Netherlands about data
Future expectations
Esther Meijer-Sedney, statistical analyst at Statistics Netherlands and organiser of the public event with young people, says: ‘I see many advantages in the one-on-one contact with young people. We believe it is important for young people to see that there are statistics about their own lives. We would like to hear what young people think about this. The input we receive can be shared with stakeholders who can act on it. We have started on Bonaire but will definitely share our story on Sint Eustatius and Saba as well.’ Meijer adds: ‘Future expectations, healthy eating, education, making ends meet and well-being are major themes we would like to know more about. For us, it is important that young people know that data has been collected on these topics. It was great that we could meet young people in the library and have conversations with them. Later this year, there will be more similar initiatives.’
Relevant data
During Statistics Netherlands’ week at the Bonaire library, sessions were held in small groups. What happens if you become a data detective? A catchy title for young people that sparked great discussions about the importance of relevant data and how to distinguish facts from opinions. Statistics Netherlands helped the young participants find data and form opinions based on facts. They learned that data comes from research, practiced setting up their own mini-research projects, formulated research questions, defined target groups and pitched their ideas. Around 75 interested young people attended the sessions, and a mini quiz was held. In the quiz, participants answered questions about their experiences, which were then compared with answers from other young people on Bonaire. This led to lively discussions. The main goal was achieved: creating meaningful conversations with young people within the island community.
Data-driven Youth
Later this year, another event will take place at the Terramar Museum under the title *Data-driven Youth*. Here, too, young people will work creatively with Statistics Netherlands data. The plan is to hold a ‘data-driven art contest’ where young people will create artworks based on themes for which Statistics Netherlands has figures. The artworks will be exhibited at the Terramar Museum. In addition, Statistics Netherlands will organise data awareness workshops at secondary schools.