In a significant step towards elevating the professional standards of public sector accounting, the Southern African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the African Professionalisation Initiative (API).
This partnership, signed on November 6, 2024, aims to boost the expertise and competency of public sector accountants across the continent, ultimately enhancing financial management for African citizens.
SAIGA Council Member Tshepo Shabangu and Lourens Erasmus, the University of South Africa’s professor in public sector financial governance, delivered keynote addresses on an academic and industry view on the objective and impact of public sector professionalisation, highlighting the role and significance of Public Sector Professionalisation.
API is a group focused on improving public sector professionals in Africa. It aims to build the skills and knowledge of accountants and auditors working in government. This agreement shows a mutual commitment to strengthen accounting and auditing standards to keep up with the fast-changing public sector.
The partnership further aims to promote and grow cooperation to increase the number and capacity of accountancy professionals (Accountants, Auditors and Non-finance managers) in the public sector thereby enhancing service delivery for citizens.
Under this agreement, SAIGA will be the primary provider of API’s training programmes, which are designed to equip public sector accountants, auditors and managers with cutting-edge skills. Through SAIGA’s efforts, professionals will receive high-quality training that aligns with the needs of major public finance employers, such as the offices of the Auditor General and Accountant General, alongside various government agencies.
“Our joint efforts aim to strengthen not only South Africa’s public finance management but that of Africa at large. This collaboration is about making meaningful strides in education and professionalisation,” said SAIGA CEO Russel Morena.
The event drew distinguished guests, who included ASB CEO, Jeanine Poggiolini, Professor Erasmus, Sipho Maluleke, HOD of TUT’s Public Accountancy Department, among others.
Speaking on the collaboration, API CEO Evans Murela said: “API and SAIGA members will also benefit from access to a collaborative platform, sharing insights into advanced public finance management, including training in artificial intelligence.”
API has made the programmes accessible and affordable, offering a cost-effective pathway for SAIGA members to gain vital skills and professional recognition.
Morena added: “We are committed to supporting the next generation of public sector finance professionals and ensuring that our programmes contribute to the broader mission of improved service delivery across Africa.”