Scottish Minister for Public Finance to open UK Evaluation Society conference in Glasgow
Mr McKee, the Scottish Minister for Public Finance, will deliver the opening address on the first day of the in-person UK Evaluation Society Data in Focus conference in Glasgow. This highly anticipated session will set the stage for discussions on the role of evaluation in strengthening public policy and ensuring better outcomes for the people of Scotland.
Governments worldwide are facing increasing pressures—limited resources, rapid societal and technological shifts, and a renewed emphasis on public service reform and accountability. Public finances, in particular, are under heightened scrutiny, making it more important than ever to show value for money and impact in decision-making.
The Scottish Government (SG) has taken a significant step in this direction with the recent publication of its Evaluation Action Plan. This plan outlines how evaluation will address these challenges and drive improvements in policymaking and public services. To support this, the SG has established a Centre of Expertise in Appraisal and Evaluation, ensuring that evidence-based decision-making remains at the heart of Scotland’s approach to governance.
Panel Discussion: Evaluation – delivering better outcomes for the people of Scotland
Following the Minister’s address, a high-profile panel discussion will explore the role of evaluation in helping policymakers deliver better outcomes, as well as the contribution of external expertise in strengthening evaluation culture within government and the wider public sector.
Professor of Practice at the University of Glasgow and Associate Director of the Centre for Public Policy
The discussion will be chaired by Claire Dougan, Associate Director at the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) providing a platform for expert insights on how evaluation can drive evidence-based decision-making, enhance public service delivery, and ensure accountability in public spending.
Panelists will draw on recent examples and explore ways to strengthen evaluation across government and the wider public sector.
This session is set to be a key highlight of the conference, offering valuable insights for policymakers, evaluators, and practitioners working to enhance public sector effectiveness.
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Data in Focus
The biggest UK evaluation conference of the year.
