Leveraging Data Science for National Policy Impact

BCS Hertfordshire Branch is delighted to invite you to our in-person event, Leveraging Data Science for National Policy Impact, a thought-provoking session exploring how data science can inform policymaking, improve public services, and support decisions with real-world societal impact.

This session is particularly aimed at early professionals, but is open to all.

Join us for an engaging talk with Kunal Deshpande, who will share insights from his journey from university to working within the UK Government, and reflect on how data is being used to influence policy and decision-making at a national level.

Synopsis

Traditional government systems relied heavily on official statistics and static reporting. Today, with the rapid growth of data availability and analytical techniques, there is a shift towards more dynamic, data-driven policymaking. This session explores how data science can be embedded across the policy lifecycle — from understanding populations and predicting outcomes, to modelling interventions and identifying unintended consequences before implementation.

Alongside these insights, the session introduces the concept of “Data Therapy” — a way of thinking about data that emphasises judgement, context, and responsible use, particularly when decisions have real-world societal impact.

Drawing on personal experience, Kunal will also share practical advice for students and early professionals on how to shape a meaningful data journey, make the most of opportunities during university, and bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Topics to be covered include:

• How data science can support policymaking and national decision-making
• The shift from traditional statistics to data-driven policy approaches
• Embedding data across the policy lifecycle, including prediction, modelling, and simulation
• The concept of “Data Therapy” and the importance of judgement and context
• The balance between AI models and human reasoning
• Understanding the gap between data and policy in real-world settings
• Practical guidance for students and early professionals entering the data field

Attendees will leave with a clearer direction, practical insights, and a fresh perspective on working with data in ways that create meaningful real-world impact.

Speaker Profile

Kunal Deshpande is a data researcher and analyst working within the UK Government, with experience contributing to impactful work across multiple departments, supporting policy through data-driven insights.

He began his professional journey through a university placement, gaining early exposure to how data is applied beyond the classroom. Since then, he has worked in multidisciplinary environments, supporting decision-making and contributing to initiatives with real-world impact.

His interests lie in the intersection of data, AI, and society, with a strong emphasis on ethical data use and responsible decision-making. He is also actively engaged in building professional networks, recognising the importance of collaboration and shared learning.

Through his work, he aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, encouraging a thoughtful and practical approach to working with data.

Favourite quote: “Data doesn’t lie… but it doesn’t tell the truth on its own either.”

The views shared in this session are based on personal experience and reflections as an alumnus of the university.

Agenda

19:00 Arrival (light refreshments & networking)
19:30 Lecture commences
20:30 Lecture finishes (optional Q&A afterwards)
21:00 Event closes

Location

College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire
A161, Lindop Building, College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire, AL10 9AB

Cost

Free for members and non-members

Booking

Get tickets: https://hertfordshire15042026.eventbrite.co.uk

Last updated 30th March, 2026 at 9:58am