A two-day workshop on Advanced Statistical Methods and Data Analysis in Agricultural Research was organised by the Students’ Placement Cell, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, with support from the PhD Scholars Forum and Nagaland University Students’ Union, Medziphema Campus, on August 13 and 14.
The workshop brought together 110 postgraduate students and research scholars from 11 departments. It focused on addressing statistical challenges faced by participants in their research. A preliminary survey was conducted to identify areas requiring greater understanding, following which the sessions were structured around participants’ needs.
The workshop emphasised practical application, with participants working with research data, selecting appropriate analytical methods and discussing specific research problems with resource persons. Participants were grouped according to their research areas to make the technical sessions more relevant.
Technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Sh. Herojit Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, and Dr. Damitre Lytan, Guest Faculty, Department of Entomology, SAS, NU. The programme included lectures, practical exercises, data analysis and question-and-answer sessions.
During the inaugural session, Dr. Mary N. Odyuo, Students’ Placement Officer, highlighted the importance of statistical competence in agricultural research. Prof. Dipak Sinha, Pro Vice-Chancellor, urged participants to look beyond the workshop certificate and recognise advanced statistical knowledge as an advantage in their research careers. Prof. K.K. Jha, ICAR Nodal Officer, encouraged critical thinking and practical application of the knowledge gained.
At the valedictory session, Prof. Pauline Alila, Dean, School of Agricultural Sciences, congratulated participants and encouraged greater knowledge sharing and similar academic initiatives. Participants appreciated the hands-on approach and said the workshop increased their confidence in analysing research data and selecting appropriate statistical methods.