Public Finance Management Training Course

This course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of public finance systems, policies, and practices that promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in managing public resources. It equips learners with practical skills in budgeting, expenditure control, revenue mobilization, procurement, auditing, and performance monitoring. The course emphasizes good governance, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and alignment of public spending with national development goals.

Target Groups

• Government officials in ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
• Public sector finance and budget officers.
• Policy makers and legislators.
• Auditors, accountants, and internal control officers.
• Development partners and donor-funded project managers.
• Civil society and NGO staff engaged in governance and accountability.

Course Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the principles and framework of Public Finance Management (PFM).
2. Prepare and manage budgets in line with government policies.
3. Strengthen revenue collection and resource mobilization strategies.
4. Apply expenditure control measures and ensure fiscal discipline.
5. Align public spending with national development priorities.
6. Monitor and evaluate public sector performance.
7. Enhance accountability, transparency, and good governance in financial management.
8. Apply international standards and reforms in PFM systems.

Course Modules

Module 1: Foundations of Public Finance Management

• Concepts and importance of PFM.
• Legal, institutional, and regulatory frameworks.
• The role of PFM in governance and development.

Module 2: Budgeting in the Public Sector

• Budget cycle and processes.
• Medium-term expenditure frameworks (MTEF).
• Participatory budgeting and stakeholder engagement.

Module 3: Revenue Mobilization & Taxation

• Principles of taxation and revenue administration.
• Non-tax revenue sources.
• Strategies for enhancing domestic resource mobilization.

Module 4: Public Expenditure Management

• Expenditure planning and control.
• Cash management and treasury operations.
• Commitment control and arrears prevention.

Module 5: Procurement & Public Investment Management

• Principles of transparent and efficient procurement.
• Public investment appraisal and prioritization.
• Value-for-money analysis.

Module 6: Accounting & Financial Reporting in Government

• Public sector accounting standards (IPSAS).
• Cash vs. accrual accounting.
• Timely financial reporting and disclosure.

Module 7: Internal Controls & Audit

• Role of internal controls in safeguarding public funds.
• Internal vs. external audit in government.
• Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) and oversight.

Module 8: Fiscal Policy & Macroeconomic Linkages

• Relationship between fiscal policy and economic growth.
• Debt management and sustainability.
• Managing fiscal risks and deficits.

Module 9: Transparency, Accountability & Anti-Corruption

• Good governance principles in PFM.
• Social accountability tools (citizen audits, expenditure tracking).
• Combating corruption in public finance.

Module 10: PFM Reforms & Best Practices

• International PFM reforms (e.g., IFMIS, program-based budgeting).
• Lessons from successful PFM systems globally.
• Emerging trends and innovations in public financial management.