Tarkwa, Ghana – The University of Mines and Technology (UMAT) in Tarkwa has been honoured by the Internal Audit Agency (IAA) as the public tertiary institution with the best Internal Audit Unit (IAU) during the 2022/2023 auditing year.
The accolade was presented in recognition of the unit's exceptional performance, including timely submission of internal audit plans and reports, consistent follow-up on audit recommendations, and providing invaluable support to management in addressing internal control issues.
At the 2023 Annual Internal Audit Conference held under the theme “20 Years of Internal Audit Practice in Ghana: Achievements, Challenges, and Way Forward,” UMAT's representatives were awarded a citation and plaque as a token of appreciation.
The event celebrated the dedication and contributions of Internal Auditors, Audit Committees, and heads of various public institutions, including State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Metropolitan Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
The citation presented by the IAA acknowledged UMAT's Internal Audit Unit for its “continuous drive for quality, penchant for learning new methodologies, and teamwork among the staff of the unit.”
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Professor Anthony Simons, Pro Vice-Chancellor of UMAT, expressed pride in the award, considering it a testament to the institution's unwavering commitment to best practices and high standards.
“To us, it is good because we are protecting the public purse, and we know there is room for improvement. Therefore, we will still urge the Audit unit to keep up with the good work,” Prof. Simons stated.
He also revealed the institution's plans to broaden the scope of its audits, extending beyond finance to encompass other critical areas affecting performance and productivity.
Mr. Samuel Effah, the Internal Auditor of UMAT, credited the unit's success to the steadfast support from stakeholders, including the University's audit committee, management, and its Council.
He highlighted the positive outcomes derived from their collaborative efforts.
UMAT, founded as the Tarkwa Technical Institute (TTI) on November 3, 1952, evolved through various stages and officially became the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, on November 3, 2004, through an Act of Parliament (Act 677).
Reporting by Issah Mohammed. Editing by Mariam Aminu.
