ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) hosted a consultative meeting for the upcoming Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2026 at the National Data Coordination Centre (N3C) in Islamabad.

The session was chaired by Chief Statistician Dr. Naeem Uz Zafar (SI) and brought together key international development partners, technical experts, and senior statisticians to align frameworks for the nationwide health and demographic assessment.

1. Key Areas of Focus & Survey Methodology

The consultation established essential parameters to ensure the PDHS 2026 meets both national policy needs and international standards:

• Digital Data Collection: Implementation of Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) technology to streamline field operations and ensure real-time data verification.
• SDG Indicator Mapping: Alignment of survey parameters with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to measure health and demographic progress.
• Targeted Modules: Finalization of questionnaire structures with special focus on Early Childhood Development (ECD) indicators, maternal and child health, and population dynamics.
• Implementation Strategy: Detailed planning regarding field operations, sampling methodologies, and technical timelines across all regions.

2. Multi-Agency Representation & Strategic Alignment

The meeting featured active participation from major United Nations agencies and senior PBS leadership:

International Development Partners

• UNRCO: Ms. Afke Bootsman, Head of RCO
• UNFPA: Mr. Muqaddar Shah, Programme Analyst
• UNDP: Mr. Umer Malik, Policy Analyst
• UNICEF: Mr. Faateh ud din, Data & Analytics Specialist

Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) Delegation

• Ms. Rabia Awan, Deputy Director General (PSLM/PCS)
• Mr. M. Yasir Ishfaq, Director (Data Processing)
• Dr. Naveed Iqbal, JACC / Director
• Ms. Rumana Sadaf, Chief Statistical Officer (SD-I)
• Ms. Sana Habib, Chief Statistical Officer
• Ms. Ayesha Sajid, Instructor (PDHS)
• Ms. Hafsa Batool, Assistant Census Commissioner (PDHS)

3. Reaffirming International Support

Development partners commended PBS for its inclusive consultative approach and technical leadership in designing a survey framework tailored to Pakistan’s specific socio-demographic landscape. International agencies reaffirmed their commitment to providing technical assistance and operational cooperation throughout the execution of PDHS 2026, reinforcing the push toward robust, data-driven policymaking.