Two new self-paced communications courses are now available on our online Learning Platform.

The courses, Fundamentals of report writing and Interpersonal communications, extensively build on material previously delivered to dozens of SAI staff through remote webinars during the height of pandemic travel restrictions. In their new formats, staff can self-enrol and interact with the courses at their own pace, at times suited to their schedules.

The ‘Fundamentals of report writing’ course takes about two hours to complete and covers the following principles:

• Thinking and planning

• Writing

• Presentation

• Editing and proofreading

The ‘Interpersonal communications’ course takes about two hours to complete and includes modules on:

• Verbal communication

• Non-verbal communication

• Listening

• Written communication

• Inclusive language

• Building rapport

• What to avoid as a new auditor in a professional environment

Because the courses teach skills essential to all auditors, investigators and even support staff, we have re-designed them to be self-paced. That way, we do not have to wait for enough new recruits to run the courses.

With the rise of digital platforms and remote work, effective communication skills have become more crucial than ever. Some of the course content covers advanced communications skills tailored to the modern workplace where communicating via email and in videoconferences has become the norm, so even senior staff are likely to benefit from taking the courses as well.

Participants will have to demonstrate their comprehension of course content to progress through the modules and pass quizzes before being able to download certificates of completion.

We offer the courses to all staff in our member network as an integral component of our Competency Framework, part of our broader efforts to enhance the capabilities of government auditors in the Pacific region.

The courses provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of report writing and interpersonal communications, enabling auditors to effectively communicate their findings and recommendations to stakeholders.

Effective communication is a vital aspect of the audit process, and these courses will help auditors in the Pacific to perform better audit fieldwork, interact more professionally in the office and deliver high-quality reports.

Staff who already have a Learning Platform account can simply log in and access the courses from the Home page. Others will just have to follow the simple steps to create a new account after clicking on the padlock icon.

We encourage all audit office staff in the Pacific to take advantage of these courses and enhance their communication skills for the benefit of their respective jurisdictions.