UEW Internal Audit Empowers Staff for Operational Excellence in Annual Retreat
The Internal Audit Department at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has successfully concluded its three-day annual retreat, focusing on equipping staff with strategic insights to enhance operational efficiency in the face of evolving challenges.
Under the theme "Sustaining Operational Efficiency in the Waves of Changes – The Role of Internal Audit," the retreat, held from Wednesday, January 10 to Friday, January 12, 2024, at the Seminar Room III, Student Centre, aimed at providing staff with a forward-looking perspective, identifying key priorities for the New Year, and formulating plans for their achievement.
Participants delved into a comprehensive range of topics including effective audit engagement planning, documentation and evidence gathering, understanding the finance officer’s expectations, the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) guide on audit reporting, contract documentation and processes, tax reforms, and enterprise risk management.
The retreat fostered a collaborative atmosphere, promoting team building and active engagement from every employee. Discussion sessions during the retreat allowed participants to exchange ideas regarding the strategic direction of the department, internal audit performance reviews for 2023, and the formulation of the 2024 audit plan.
Mr. Charles Coffie, the Acting Internal Auditor, emphasised the significance of bringing the entire staff together to discuss the internal audit charter and jointly design a risk-based internal audit annual plan for 2024. He stressed the importance of providing employees with a platform to showcase their abilities and create actionable audit plans that positively impact the office's performance and the university's corporate reputation.
During his welcome address, Mr. Coffie challenged employees to be honest about their work and encouraged continuous improvement in both individual and collective performances. He assured university management of the Internal Audit Department's commitment to implementing a methodical, disciplined approach to service delivery.
Key resource persons at the retreat included Surv. John K. Oppong, Esq., Mr. John K. O. Biney, Mr. Clement A. Yeboah, Mr. Godwill Andoh Mensah, Mr. Daniel Yidana, Mr. Alhassan Fuseini, and Mr. Shadrack Nketiah, the representative of the UEW Finance Officer. Their expertise contributed significantly to the thought-provoking training sessions, further enhancing the skillset of the Internal Audit team.
As UEW looks ahead, the commitment of its Internal Audit Department to maintaining operational excellence signals a proactive approach to navigating challenges and ensuring the university's continued delivery of high-quality services to its clients and stakeholders. The retreat's success underscores the institution's dedication to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and resilience in the face of change.
