Kaimosi Friends University today commenced a critical training program for its Public Finance Management Standing Committees, aiming to enhance financial accountability and resource management within the institution. The initiative underscores the university's commitment to transparent and efficient utilization of public funds.

Presiding over the opening, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Peter Mwita emphasized the pivotal role of departmental heads in strategic planning and resource allocation. He said that it is important to have all the head of departments to participate in planning and utilization of allocated resources prudently.

Prof. Mwita added that the management is dedicated to transparency and openness and he acknowledged the crucial role of all the unions collaboration in the university's governance. He highlighted the responsibility of university officials to the taxpayer by undertaking efficient procurement, spending, accounting, and reporting to ensure the prudent use of public money

"When I joined Kaimosi Friends University, I gave priority to transparency and openness and we have always involved all our unions in decision making and we value the role the union has been undertaking," Prof. Mwita said.

Focused on enhancing fiscal responsibility, KAFU committee members participate in the comprehensive Public Finance Management training session.

The Vice Chancellor issued a stern warning against financial mismanagement, stating that "public resources are efficiently managed and if there are any wastages then actions will be taken on the staff." He detailed proactive measures taken by the management, including a "zero fault audit" and the appointment of members to the Public Finance Committee. Furthermore, Prof. Mwita announced the establishment of an independent audit function to bolster oversight and accountability.

“Being a public institution, we have been called to action. We have to realize that as a public university, we are custodians of public trust. And it is our duty, both individually and collectively to uphold the highest standards of financial discipline and resource stewardship.” He added.

The comprehensive training, facilitated by officials from the National Treasury, covers a wide array of essential topics crucial for robust public financial management. Participants will delve into the Public Financial Management (PFM) Cycle, its core principles, values, and concepts, as well as the legal and institutional framework governing PFM in Kenya.

KAFU's Public Finance Management Standing Committee and trainers gather for a critical financial accountability program.

Key modules of the training include an in-depth exploration of the Public Investment Information Management System (PIMIS), the intricacies of the budget preparation process and approval, and effective public expenditure and control mechanisms. Emphasis will also be placed on public procurement and value for money, contract management, and the crucial concept of a zero-fault audit. The program concludes with a focus on project monitoring and evaluation, equipping committees with the tools to track and assess the effectiveness of university initiatives.

This training program is expected to significantly enhance the capacity of KAFU's Standing Committees, reinforcing the university's commitment to fiscal responsibility and ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively for the benefit of students and the wider community.

As the training program drew to a close, the Vice chancellor, Prof. Mwita emphasized that achieving a zero fault audit is not merely a target for Kaimosi Friends University, but a reflection of the institution’s commitment to transparency, accountability and integrity. He noted that the insights gained from the training workshop should serve to strengthen KAFU’s internal controls.

Prof. Mwita challenged the Public Finance Management Standing Committee to apply the knowledge acquired in their daily operations. He urged the team to realign the university’s financial standing, identify gaps that could expose the institution to audit queries, formulate actionable departmental plans, foster collaboration and ensure the knowledge is cascaded to other staff members.

Vice-chancellor Prof.Mwita addresses the PFM Standing Committee at the end of the training program.