Jacob Saikolo is an experienced data specialist working as a Data Manager at the Institute of Public Opinion and Research (IPOR), bringing over six years of experience in research, survey programming, data management, facilitating research trainings and short courses, real-time data monitoring, advanced analytics, spatial data analysis, advanced computer programming, technical field support, report writing, results dissemination, and digital communications. He holds a Master of Science in Data Science from Manipal University in India and a Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Computer Science from the University of Malawi.
With a strong academic foundation and practical experience, Jacob specializes in end-to-end data systems and methodologies with a focus on data quality aspects. He is proficient in designing and implementing CAPI, CAWI, and CATI data collection systems. He has hands-on experience with top-notch tools like SurveyCTO, ODK, Kobo Collect, SurveyToGo, CSPro Census, Survey Solutions, REDCap, and CommCare. His analytical skills span across tools like R, Python, Stata, SPSS, SAS, Excel, Power BI, Data Studio, Access Database, MySQL, PostgreSQL, QGIS, etc.
Jacob\'s technical expertise enables him to design data systems and protocols, develop and program complex survey instruments, oversee real-time field monitoring, and perform advanced statistical analyses and data visualizations. He is also skilled in writing evidence-based reports and proposals for decision-making and policy influence.
Previously, Jacob served as a part-time lecturer in statistics and computer science at the University of Malawi for four years. He continues to be actively involved in the data science community, staying current with emerging technologies and contributing to professional knowledge-sharing networks
