Introduction to Governance Auditing

• Definition and purpose of governance audits in the public sector.
• Key components of governance frameworks: ethics, accountability, and transparency.
• International standards and best practices in governance auditing.

Evaluating Governance Structures

• Assessing leadership roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.
• Analyzing organizational structures and their effectiveness.
• Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in governance practices.

Ensuring Ethical Practices

• Principles of ethical governance in the public sector.
• Evaluating compliance with codes of ethics and conduct.
• Addressing conflicts of interest, favoritism, and unethical behavior.

Identifying Governance Risks

• Common risks in public sector governance (e.g., corruption, lack of accountability).
• Techniques for evaluating risk management strategies.
• Prioritizing areas for governance improvement.

Auditing Compliance with Governance Policies

• Reviewing adherence to governance policies, regulations, and standards.
• Assessing the effectiveness of internal controls in promoting ethical practices.
• Aligning governance audits with organizational and public sector objectives.

Reporting Governance Audit Findings

• Structuring reports to highlight critical governance issues and recommendations.
• Communicating findings to stakeholders with clarity and impact.
• Driving change through actionable insights and best practices.

Case Studies and Practical Exercises

• Real-world examples of governance audits in government entities.
• Hands-on activities to evaluate governance frameworks and ethical practices.
• Group discussions on challenges and solutions in governance auditing.

Enhanced Practical Experience:
Participants will engage in interactive workshops designed to evaluate governance structures, identify ethical risks, and draft governance audit reports. Practical exercises will include analyzing leadership accountability, assessing compliance with codes of conduct, and recommending measures to address governance gaps. Case studies will provide insights into successful governance audits, showcasing how ethical practices and transparency were improved in public sector organizations.

Delivered by the Oxford Institute of Education and Training, this course ensures participants are equipped to conduct impactful governance audits, fostering ethical practices, accountability, and integrity in government operations.