A three-day training session for staff members of the Internal Audit of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanaya, Eastern Region, has been held at the Video Conference Room. The training, on the theme “Performance of Internal Auditors in UESD,” was designed to strengthen the Directorate’s effectiveness and promote best practices in the discharge of internal audit responsibilities across the University.
Director of Internal Audit, Ms. Joyce Anastasia Sam, emphasised the significance of the training in enhancing professional competence and operational efficiency and expressed confidence that the training would positively impact their roles and improve overall service delivery within the Directorate.
On day one, there was a presentation on “Public Financial Management (PFM), Commitment Control, and Expenditure Management Measures for MDAs” delivered by the Head of the Financial Audit Section, Jerry M. K. Gadeka-Gborglah. He underscored the importance of commitment control within Ghana’s public financial management framework and stressed strict compliance with the Public Financial Management Act, 2016. He highlighted key principles such as fiscal discipline, transparency, accountability, and value for money, and emphasized the use of the Ghana Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) for recording commitments. He concluded by urging adherence to approved budgets and controls to ensure fiscal sustainability and effective service delivery.
Deputy Registrar, Dr. Hammond Oppong Kwanteng, presented on Administrative Writing and highlighted the critical role of effective administrative writing in career advancement, particularly in supporting promotions for non-teaching staff. He provided participants with an overview of key professional documents, including memos, position papers, technical papers, and proposals, emphasizing their structure, purpose, and strategic importance. The presentation equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills to enhance the quality of their written submissions and strengthen their prospects for professional growth within the University.
Presenting on “The Role of the Internal Auditor under the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921),” Head of the Compliance and IT Unit, Mr. Alex Ekow Quainoo, outlined the mandate and responsibilities of Internal Audit Units under the Public Financial Management Act, 2016, emphasising dual reporting lines to ensure independence and accountability. He noted key functions such as evaluating internal controls, assessing risk management systems, ensuring compliance, and promoting value for money. He also stressed risk-based planning, timely reporting, professional integrity, and proper procedures for reporting suspected fraud to strengthen governance and transparency.
There were interactive sessions, which provided participants with the opportunity to ask questions and share practical insights from their respective perspectives.
