Koror, Palau — Mike Scott, Program Director from the Pacific Association of Supreme Audit Institutions (PASAI), is providing in-person technical assistance to the Office of the Public Auditor (OPA) of the Republic of Palau this week. His visit aims to strengthen the OPA’s audit capabilities and internal governance.
Scott’s support spans a broad range of areas, including the delivery of quality audits and refining the OPA’s forward program of work and human resource practices. Working closely with Public Auditor Satrunino Tewid and his team, he is helping to ensure Palau’s auditing office continues to fulfill its vital role in public financial management.
“A big part of the OPA’s work is conducting performance audits in response to requests from the Senate and from OPA’s annual audit plan,” Scott explained. “I’m here to advise the audit teams on how to approach and complete a number of those audits, as well as audits of grants received by the government and audits of the performance information prepared by public agencies.”
Highlighting the dedication of the OPA team, Scott said, “They are committed to using the full range of their office’s mandate to deliver quality audits and other work that provides transparency and accountability for the Palau Congress and citizens of Palau. This small team plays an outsized role in Palau’s public financial management system and strives to enhance public sector performance.”
Public Auditor Tewid expressed appreciation for the assistance, stating, “My office plays a crucial role in safeguarding the efficient and effective administration of public resources for the people and Government of Palau. I am grateful for PASAI’s invaluable assistance in helping us to fulfil this role.”
During his visit, Scott also met with Toby Sharpe, the Ambassador of Australia to Palau, to brief him on the support PASAI is providing to the OPA.
PASAI acknowledges the generous support of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) in making this mission possible.
This collaboration highlights the ongoing regional commitment to enhancing governance and accountability across Pacific Island nations