Saint Lucia has successfully concluded the field data collection phase of its second round of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, MICS-7, marking a major step forward in strengthening evidence-based development and policy planning across the island.
The survey, conducted by the Central Statistical Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Equity and supported by UNICEF, gathered nationally representative data from 3,040 households through a scientifically selected sample.
Statistician and Technical Coordinator for MICS-7, Urmain Gray, described the completion of the exercise as a critical achievement for the country.
“Concluding this phase of data capture is very significant for Saint Lucia. We have substantial data gaps in several areas and completing this survey allows us to fill those gaps and support coming data initiatives,” Gray said.
She noted that despite challenges, the team remained committed to meeting its targets.
“Despite conducting fieldwork during the general election period and the Christmas season, we remained determined and were able to meet our December 2025 target,” she added.
The survey forms part of a broader national push to improve the quality and accessibility of data used in policymaking, particularly in areas such as health, education, and social development.
Officials highlighted that the project was supported by a comprehensive public sensitization and awareness campaign, which helped to ensure strong participation from households across the island.
While initial phases encountered minor logistical challenges, including issues during the Christmas 2023 to 2024 mapping and listing stage and isolated payment delays, the initiative maintained steady progress throughout 2024 and 2025, at times moving ahead of schedule.
To safeguard accuracy, the survey incorporated advanced digital tools and strict quality control measures.
Gray explained that “the survey instruments were digitally embedded with validation filters and enabling conditions to reduce enumerator errors and ensure data integrity.”
She added that supervisors conducted real-time field reviews, observed selected interviews, and performed immediate checks of completed questionnaires, while an additional editing team at the Central Statistical Office carried out further quality assurance.
“Based on the rigorous quality control systems we implemented, we are very confident in the accuracy and reliability of the data collected,” Gray stated.
The data collected will play a crucial role in shaping national policies and development strategies. According to officials, the findings will be made publicly available through the Central Statistical Office’s website by the end of the year.
“Stakeholders, researchers and members of the public are encouraged to contact the CSO for further information or data requests,” Gray said.
She also expressed gratitude to the public for their participation in the process.
“On behalf of UNICEF, the Government of Saint Lucia, the Central Statistical Office, and the Ministry of Equity, we sincerely thank all respondents who opened their homes to our teams. Their patience and cooperation are invaluable to strengthening national development planning.”
The completion of MICS-7 places Saint Lucia in a stronger position to design targeted policies and programmes, ensuring that future development initiatives are grounded in reliable, comprehensive data.