MUSCAT: The State Financial and Administrative Audit Authority has detailed how it is digitising its audit work, giving auditors faster access to data, standardising procedures and tracking whether audited entities act on recommendations.
The authority’s Electronic Integration Platform stores and processes data from multiple sources within entities subject to its oversight. It provides a single point of access to their systems, with each user’s access determined by their permissions. The authority said this reduces the time and effort auditors spend locating and accessing information.
The Audit Management System automates and standardises procedures across all stages of an audit, from recording findings and preparing reports to monitoring recommendations and corrective action. The system also helps audit teams retain documents and use audit indicators to guide follow-up, while reducing reliance on paper records.
The authority has also introduced an Enterprise Risk Management System based on the international ISO 31000:2018 guidelines and adapted to its mandate. The system uses risk registers and interactive dashboards to help identify, assess and monitor risks. The authority uses those assessments to set audit priorities.
Separately, the authority highlighted progress under the National Integrity Promotion Plan 2022–2030, which brings together government entities, businesses, civil society organisations and individuals to combat corruption and promote the efficient and equitable use of public resources.
The authority cited updates to laws and regulations that support integrity and governance, as well as agreements with regional and international anti-corruption bodies. It also highlighted training programmes for professionals working in the field and public outreach through conferences, exhibitions and other events.
