Official statistics serve as a cornerstone for evidence-based decision-making in governance, policy formulation, and societal progress. The presentation examines the critical role of official statistics and explores avenues for academia to support national statistical offices (NSOs) in enhancing data quality, relevance, and accessibility. It underscores the symbiotic relationship between NSOs and academia, wherein NSOs benefit from academic expertise in methodological advancements, data analysis techniques, and interdisciplinary research collaborations. Conversely, academia gains access to rich data sources, real-world challenges, and opportunities for applied research, fostering innovation and knowledge dissemination. Through collaborative efforts, NSOs can leverage academia’s resources to address emerging data needs, improve statistical literacy, and adapt methodologies to evolving societal dynamics. The presentation advocates for a structured framework of engagement between NSOs and academia, facilitating knowledge exchange, capacity building, and mutual reinforcement in advancing official statistics for informed decision-making and sustainable development.