Education ministry inaugurates audit committee to strengthen financial oversight

The Deputy Minister for Education, Clement Apaak, has inaugurated a reconstituted Audit Committee for the Ministry of Education on behalf of the Minister.

This reaffirms the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent financial management in the sector.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Apaak said, “It is my distinct honour to represent my Hon. Minister at this important ceremony marking the inauguration of the reconstituted Audit Committee of the Ministry of Education.”

He explained that the reconstitution of the Committee is in strict compliance with Section 86(1) of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which mandates all covered entities to establish Audit Committees to strengthen oversight and ensure effective internal controls within public institutions.

“This inauguration underscores the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound financial management,” he emphasised.

According to him, as a Ministry entrusted with significant public resources to deliver quality and inclusive education, strong governance systems remain indispensable to achieving its mandate.

“The Audit Committee serves as a vital pillar in reinforcing internal audit functions and promoting prudent use of public funds,” he stated.

Addressing members of the five-member Committee, the Deputy Minister described their appointment as both a responsibility and a call to national service.

“Your independent oversight and professional guidance will be instrumental in deepening compliance, strengthening risk management systems, and safeguarding the integrity of the Ministry’s operations,” he noted.

On behalf of the Minister, he assured the Committee of management’s full backing. “We pledge Management’s full cooperation to the Committee in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities,” he said.

Following the swearing-in, the Committee elected a Chairperson, who assured management of its readiness to work collaboratively to improve systems, enhance compliance and promote financial discipline within the Ministry.

The inauguration forms part of broader efforts to reinforce institutional accountability and ensure that public funds allocated to the education sector are managed efficiently, transparently and in line with the law.