The Nation-wide Risk-Based Internal Audit (RBIA) training that commenced on 3rd October, 2022, made its final stop in Koforidua from 31st October-1st November, 2022. The training programme was opened by Dr. E.O. Osae, Director-General of the Internal Audit Agency.
Mr. John Donkor, Ag. Chief Executive Officer of the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council (ERCC) delivered the welcome address on behalf of the Regional Minister. He stated that the role of Internal Auditors in public financial management is so huge it can not be downplayed. He continued that it was for this reason the ERCC attaches importance to auditing, monitoring, backstopping and rapid response. Mr. Donkor added that a Risk-Based Internal Audit Workplan is a requirement of DPAT and for Assemblies to pass, they must fulfill this requirement. He urged participants to pay attention to what would be taught so they would be well-equipped to put it into practice.
Dr. Osae in his opening address said that the training was aimed at equipping staff of the Internal Audit Units (IAUs) with the requisite skills to prepare and submit the 2023 RBIA Workplans on time and in conformity with the Agency’s standards. He also made mention of the Guidelines issued by the Agency including thrust areas to be considered. The mandatory thrust areas according to the Director-General include among others:
- Monthly auditing of the Electronic Salary Payment Voucher (ESPV).
- Ensure mainstreaming of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) into the operations of covered entities.
- Ensure the mainstreaming of performance auditing into key operational areas of covered entities.
- Auditing assets and property protection to ensure appropriate titling and documentation.
- Audit implementation of the approved 2023 Budget of MMDAs in line with approved.
In concluding, Dr. Osae mentioned the Internal Audit Service (IAS) Bill to convert the Agency into a Service, rationalise Conditions of Service of Internal Auditors and improve their independence and objectivity in their approach to work.
