Could we use data to manage our way out of inequality?

Shaneel Bachoo

In a crisp, persuasive talk, Shaneel Bachoo sets the scene by making the oft-repeated point that South Africa, like most other countries, could have been better prepared for COVID-19. The talk engages a higher gear when he states the painful truth that some South Africans were at an increased risk of dying from the virus purely because of their socio-economic status. Why does this situation persist when we are surrounded by virtually all the data we need to help us improve the quality of life of the poor? Could we use data and metrics to manage ourselves into a more equal society? Shaneel believes that we can and that he knows how.

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Shaneel is a research specialist at consulting firm IQbusiness, where he is also a lead on the Social Progress Index project. Holding a master’s degree in social science from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Shaneel is passionate about generating insightful thought leadership, particularly in the realm of social progress.