Programme Overview
Training Description
Session Objectives
- Understand the core principles and frameworks of modern PFM. Analyze and diagnose weaknesses in existing public financial systems. Design and implement comprehensive budget and fiscal reforms. Enhance transparency and accountability in public spending. Strengthen public procurement and expenditure control mechanisms. Develop effective strategies for managing public debt and fiscal risks. Master the use of technology for PFM system modernization. Improve external oversight and audit functions. Create a roadmap for sustainable PFM reform and institutional capacity building
About the Course
Catalyzing Change: Public Financial Management Reforms is a practical and strategic training course designed to equip public-sector finance professionals, policymakers, and institutional leaders with the knowledge and tools required to design, implement, and sustain effective Public Financial Management (PFM) reforms.The course examines how governments can strengthen the management of public resources through improvements in budget formulation, revenue management, expenditure control, treasury operations, public procurement, accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, audit, fiscal transparency, and accountability.Participants will explore common drivers of PFM reform, assess institutional and system weaknesses, develop reform priorities, manage implementation challenges, and establish mechanisms for measuring reform progress and impact. The course emphasizes practical approaches to institutional change, digital transformation, stakeholder engagement, capacity development, and sustainable reform implementation.
Curriculum & Topics
9 Topics | 45 Sessions
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Workshop 1.1: The importance of PFM for economic growth and governance.
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Workshop 1.2: Key components of a strong PFM system.
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Workshop 1.3: Common challenges and barriers to reform in developing contexts.
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Workshop 1.4: An overview of international PFM frameworks and standards.
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Workshop 1.5: Diagnosing PFM weaknesses using performance assessment tools.
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Workshop 2.1: The role of a multi-year fiscal framework.
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Workshop 2.2: Linking national development plans to the budget.
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Workshop 2.3: Program and performance-based budgeting approaches.
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Workshop 2.4: Techniques for improving budget comprehensiveness and realism.
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Workshop 2.5: The importance of citizen engagement in the budgeting process.
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Workshop 3.1: Implementing robust financial controls and systems.
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Workshop 3.2: Modern treasury management and cash flow forecasting.
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Workshop 3.3: The role of financial management information systems (FMIS).
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Workshop 3.4: Strengthening internal audit functions.
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Workshop 3.5: Managing contingent liabilities and fiscal risks.
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Workshop 4.1: Principles of transparent and competitive public procurement.
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Workshop 4.2: Best practices in tender and contract management.
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Workshop 4.3: Combating corruption in the procurement process.
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Workshop 4.4: Using e-procurement systems for efficiency and transparency.
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Workshop 4.5: Strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks for procurement.
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Workshop 5.1: The importance of timely and accessible fiscal information.
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Workshop 5.2: International standards for fiscal reporting and data dissemination.
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Workshop 5.3: Mechanisms for legislative oversight of the budget.
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Workshop 5.4: The role of supreme audit institutions (SAIs) in ensuring accountability.
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Workshop 5.5: Promoting public access to budget information and open data initiatives.
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Workshop 6.1: The principles of sustainable public debt management.
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Workshop 6.2: Strategies for debt recording, reporting, and analysis.
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Workshop 6.3: Identifying and mitigating various fiscal risks.
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Workshop 6.4: The role of independent debt management offices.
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Workshop 6.5: Preparing for and responding to fiscal shocks.
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Workshop 7.1: How integrated financial management information systems (IFMIS) can drive reform.
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Workshop 7.2: The benefits and challenges of implementing e-government solutions.
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Workshop 7.3: Using data analytics for better fiscal decision-making.
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Workshop 7.4: Digital platforms for citizen feedback and accountability.
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Workshop 7.5: Cybersecurity and data protection in government financial systems.
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Workshop 8.1: Strengthening the independence and capacity of Supreme Audit Institutions.
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Workshop 8.2: Performance auditing and value-for-money analysis.
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Workshop 8.3: The role of legislative committees in scrutinizing public accounts.
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Workshop 8.4: Engaging with civil society for independent budget oversight.
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Workshop 8.5: Following up on audit recommendations and enforcing compliance.
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Workshop 9.1: Developing a phased PFM reform strategy and action plan.
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Workshop 9.2: Building political will and managing stakeholder expectations.
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Workshop 9.3: The role of donor coordination and technical assistance.
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Workshop 9.4: Monitoring and evaluating the impact of reforms.
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Workshop 9.5: Institutionalizing reforms for long-term sustainability.