AGO Findings & Prominent Ethical Lapses: Key Learning Points and Ethical Considerations
October 21, 2023
AGO Findings & Prominent Ethical Lapses: Key Learning Points and Ethical Considerations

Recent observations from the Auditor-General’s Office (AGO) highlight that many governance failures stem not only from weak controls but also from ethical lapses, poor accountability, and inadequate oversight. The latest audit report revealed recurring issues such as procurement irregularities, weak contract management, lapses in conflict-of-interest declarations, inadequate monitoring of public funds, and insufficient supervisory review.

These findings demonstrate that compliance frameworks alone are insufficient without strong ethical judgment and governance discipline. This workshop will equip participants with practical insights drawn from recent AGO findings, enabling them to recognize early warning signs, strengthen controls, and embed ethical considerations into operational decision-making.

  • Overview of key observations from the latest AGO report
  • Procurement governance lapses and bypassing approval processes
  • Conflict-of-interest disclosure failures and management responsibilities
  • Weak contract management and inadequate vendor oversight
  • Improper use of funds and insufficient financial monitoring
  • Lack of segregation of duties and control overrides
  • Inadequate documentation and audit trail deficiencies
  • Root causes: tone at the top, accountability gaps, and operational pressures
  • Ethical decision-making framework for managers and officers
  • Practical controls to prevent recurrence of AGO findings
  • Case-based discussions based on recent AGO audit scenarios
  • Building ethical culture and strengthening governance discipline

Key Learning Objectives

  • Interpret AGO findings to distinguish between control weaknesses and ethical lapses
  • Identify recurring governance issues highlighted in recent AGO audit observations
  • Understand root causes such as weak oversight, poor accountability, and cultural factors
  • Apply preventive controls and ethical decision frameworks to avoid similar findings
  • Strengthen governance practices to improve stewardship of funds and decision transparency

This workshop qualifies for 2.0 CPE hours in Ethics and Professionalism (Category 2) and 5.0 CPE hours in Other Relevant Expertise

As part of our commitment towards minimizing carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier planet, we will only be issuing the soft copy of the training materials.

The training materials will be emailed to you 2 days before the workshop. Charging points are available in the training room to charge your digital device.

 

  • Board members and Audit & Risk Committee members
  • Senior management and department heads
  • Internal auditors and risk management professionals
  • Compliance and governance officers
  • Finance and procurement personnel
  • Programme managers and operational supervisors
  • Public sector, charities, and IPC administrators

No formal pre-requisites. However, participants will benefit from:

  • Basic understanding of governance or internal controls
  • Experience in operational, finance, or administrative roles
  • Exposure to audit, risk, or compliance functions (helpful but not mandatory)

Expert Speaker

Kingston Low

CA, CIA, CISA, CRMA, CBCP, and FFP

Kingston Low is a highly accomplished and seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in corporate governance, risk management, and internal audit. He has a proven track record of advising boards and businesses on enhancing productivity, effectiveness, and risk mitigation strategies. He has successfully led business redesigns and implemented best practices that resulted in significant efficiencies and cost savings.

As a distinguished trainer and thought leader, Kingston shares his expertise at conferences and conducts specialized training for various professional institutes. He is passionate about mentoring the next generation of internal audit, risk management and Business Continuity professionals, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in an ever-changing business landscape.

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Managing Procurement, Contracting & Vendor Fraud Risks : Internal Audit Techniques, Red Flags & the Ethical Dimensions
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