Islamabad, 20 October 2026 – The Pakistan Scientific and Technological Information Centre (PASTIC), Islamabad, successfully conducted a three-day training programme on research tools, including MAXQDA and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), on 12, 13 and 20 October 2026. The programme brought together 46 students from the Department of Anthropology, Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), Islamabad, to strengthen their practical skills in qualitative and statistical data analysis.
The first session, held on 12 October, focused on using MAXQDA for qualitative data analysis. Ms. Rabia Zafar from Bahria University served as the resource person. Participants were introduced to thematic coding, importing datasets and working with qualitative data for systematic analysis.
The second session, held on 13 October, introduced participants to data analysis using SPSS. Topics included an overview of the software, different data types and data transformation techniques. Hands-on exercises complemented the instructional sessions, allowing participants to practise applying the concepts covered.
The final session, held on 20 October, further explored SPSS-based data analysis, with particular emphasis on data transformation techniques, including computations, recoding, Missing Values Analysis and descriptive statistics. Practical exercises helped participants apply these techniques to research data and strengthen their understanding of statistical analysis.
The programme concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony. Dr. Sadia Abid, Chairperson of the Department of Anthropology at Quaid-i-Azam University, distributed certificates to participating students in recognition of their participation.
Through capacity-building initiatives such as this, PASTIC National Centre continues to promote research skills development and strengthen the practical capabilities of students and researchers. The programme reflects PASTIC’s commitment to supporting evidence-based research, effective data analysis and scientific inquiry by providing opportunities to learn and apply essential research tools.