About this programme

The course focuses on the tools and understanding that public managers in all parts of the public sector require to ensure the successful and prudent tax management in good public policy design, implementation and operation. Participants will explore budgeting, financial reporting, auditing, and financial control mechanisms designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficient use of public resources. The course will cover both theoretical and practical aspects, equipping participants with the skills needed to manage finances effectively in government agencies and public institutions.

Duration

5 Days

Who Should Attend

Government financial managers and accountants
Public sector budget officers
Policy makers involved in public finance
Auditors and financial analysts working in the public sector
Professionals involved in fiscal planning, reporting, and expenditure management
Public sector administrators responsible for resource allocation
Project managers in public-funded projects

Learning outcomes

What you'll walk away with

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Understand the principles and frameworks of public sector financial management.
Implement effective budgeting and resource allocation strategies.
Interpret and prepare financial statements and reports in the public sector context.
Apply financial control mechanisms to ensure compliance and accountability.
Analyze public expenditures and assess performance through auditing and financial analysis.
Understand legal and regulatory requirements governing public sector finance.
Manage financial risks and implement internal controls to prevent fraud and mismanagement.

Course modules

What we cover, module by module

Module 1: Introduction to Public Sector Financial Management

Overview of public financial management systems
Key differences between public and private sector finance
Legal and regulatory frameworks
Principles of transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility

Module 2: Budgeting and Resource Allocation

Types of public sector budgets (performance, zero-based, program-based)
Budgeting process and cycle in the public sector
Tools and techniques for resource allocation
Budget execution and monitoring

Module 3: Financial Reporting and Compliance

Understanding public sector financial statements
IPSAS (International Public Sector Accounting Standards) overview
Financial reporting requirements and disclosures
Ensuring compliance with public financial regulations

Module 4: Financial Controls and Auditing

Internal control systems in the public sector
Risk management and fraud prevention
Public sector audit processes (internal and external)
Conducting performance audits and financial analysis

Module 5: Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA)

Overview of PEFA framework and its application
Measuring financial performance and accountability
Public expenditure management and reform initiatives
Case studies on public sector financial management best practices

Impact

Where the change lands

Organizational Impact

Improves financial integrity and governance.
Enhances public trust and accountability.
Boosts the organization's reputation and credibility with regulators and citizens.

Personal Impact

Provides an in-demand skill set for a career in the public sector.
Is crucial for career progression into senior leadership and advisory roles.
Builds the confidence to champion transparent and accountable financial practices.