The Pacific Association for Supreme Audit Intuitions (PASAI) and the University of the South Pacific (USP) partnered last week to promote improved government transparency and accountability through training on ‘International Public Sector Accounting Standards’ (IPSAS).

The week-long training programme from 3-7 July 2017 for the Tonga government accountants and auditors concluded on Friday in Nuku’alofa, Tonga. It was attended by 30 participants from the Office of the Auditor-General, Ministry of Finance and National Planning, government ministries and public enterprises. The participants are now more equipped with the skills needed to produce financial statements in line with international accounting standards.

“The high level of participation including attendance during a public holiday underscores the importance of attaining the world’s best accounting skills and standards,” said Mr Sefita Tangi, Auditor-General of Tonga.

The USP also delivered an online course on IPSAS Cash Basis using its online learning management system called ‘Moodle’. Four staff of the Tonga Office of the Auditor-General and two from the Ministry of Finance and National Planning participated in this online learning.

“Australia is pleased to support this important work in Tonga. Strengthened accounting skills and broader public financial management will help to build the confidence of both the general public and those wanting to invest in Tonga’s future”, said Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner, Rhona McPhee.

The programme is one of the activities under the Support for External Oversight Function of the Public Financial Management System (Tonga) which aims to enhance the knowledge and interpretation of IPSAS and their application. The use of cases from the Tonga Whole of Government and public enterprises accounts assisted the participants in understanding the practical application of the standards. The knowledge gained from the training hopes to improve the quality of the financial statements of Tonga government and public enterprises.

PASAI acknowledges the kind financial support of the Australian Government in improving public financial management in Tonga.