Course detail

Certificate in Performance Audit Fundamentals

Course Description

A specialised certification designed to equip learners with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to conduct performance audits in public and private sector institutions. The course focuses on economy, efficiency, effectiveness, audit methodologies, planning, evidence gathering, and reporting in line with international standards.

Details

Learners gain a thorough understanding of performance auditing frameworks, risk assessment, audit criteria development, data collection techniques, and evaluation methods used by supreme audit institutions, internal audit units, and development partners.

Module 1: Introduction to Performance Auditing & Public Accountability

Explains the purpose of performance audits, their role in improving governance, and the difference between financial, compliance, and performance audits. Introduces key accountability and transparency concepts.

 

Module 2: Performance Audit Standards, Principles & Methodologies

Covers INTOSAI standards (ISSAIs), audit principles, methodologies, audit criteria, and the conceptual basis for assessing economy, efficiency, and effectiveness (3Es).

 

Module 3: Audit Planning, Problem Analysis & Risk Assessment

Focuses on selecting audit topics, conducting preliminary studies, developing audit objectives, risk assessment techniques, and creating structured audit plans.

 

Module 4: Evidence Gathering, Data Collection & Fieldwork Techniques

Covers interviews, surveys, document reviews, observations, data validation, and evidence sufficiency. Provides practical tools for conducting fieldwork and collecting reliable data.

 

Module 5: Performance Analysis, Findings Development & Evaluation Tools

Explores root-cause analysis, benchmarking, logic models, impact evaluation, trend analysis, and techniques for developing strong, evidence-based audit findings.

 

Module 6: Writing Performance Audit Reports & Communicating Results

Teaches how to structure audit reports, present findings clearly, develop conclusions and recommendations, and communicate results to stakeholders effectively.

 

Module 7: Follow-Up, Monitoring & Implementation of Audit Recommendations

Examines how institutions track implementation, use dashboards, and evaluate the effectiveness of corrective actions to ensure continuous improvement.

 

Module 8: Case Studies in Performance Auditing & Best Practices

Provides real-world examples from supreme audit institutions and internal audit teams, highlighting successful audits, common challenges, and lessons for practitioners.

 

  • Fundamentals of performance auditing and the 3Es

  • International audit standards (ISSAIs) and methodologies

  • Planning and conducting performance audit engagements

  • Collecting reliable evidence and analysing performance data

  • Developing audit findings, conclusions, and recommendations

  • Writing clear and compelling audit reports

  • Monitoring and evaluating implementation of audit actions

  • Applying best practices from global auditing institutions

  • Internal and external auditors

  • Public-sector audit officers and compliance staff

  • Monitoring and evaluation professionals

  • Staff of supreme audit institutions (SAIs)

  • Programme managers and public finance officers

  • Students pursuing auditing, governance, or public administration

  • Professionals transitioning into performance auditing roles

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