Kariba Municipality opens Induction Workshop for Local Schools

By Admore Mbonda in Kariba

Kariba –– In a significant move to enhance the operational efficiency of local educational institutions, Kariba Municipality with the ministry of education has inaugurated a two-day induction workshop aimed at equipping Nyanhewe Primary and Mahombekombe Secondary School with essential skills.

The workshop, which commenced yesterday, seeks to align the schools with council standards and improve their administrative capabilities.

During the opening session, the Director of Finance for Kariba Municipality, Saratieri Chitenhe, emphasized the importance of integrating the schools into the council’s key departments. “The schools are now part of our core responsibilities, and it is crucial that we work hand in hand with the responsible authority to ensure effective governance,” Chitenhe stated.

Key Initiatives for School Improvement

The workshop has outlined several critical initiatives to bolster school operations:

Automated Accounting Systems Implementation of systems such as Pastel Evolution to streamline financial management.

International Accounting Standards Adoption

Schools are encouraged to adopt the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) to enhance financial transparency and reporting.

External Audits

It was mandated that all council schools undergo audits by external auditors to ensure accountability and compliance.

Consolidated Financial Reporting

The audited accounts of schools will be integrated with the overall financial statements of the council.

Training Programs

Bursars will receive comprehensive training on financial standards, while teachers will participate in workshops focusing on educational standards and development committees (SDCs).

Supplementary Budgets

Schools are expected to prepare supplementary budgets in 2025 to secure funding for IPSAS implementation.

Asset Management

Updating asset registers to reflect current inventories accurately.

Invoicing

Introduction of invoices for parents at the beginning of each term to help observe the accrual concept in financial reporting.

Maintenance and Support from the Council

Director of Housing and Community

Services, Godfrey Tichaona Magijani, also addressed attendees, stressing the importance of communication between schools and the council regarding repairs and maintenance.

“As the responsible authority, the council must be kept informed about all maintenance needs. We are committed to providing the necessary support,” Magijani affirmed.

Risk Management and Compliance

Kariba Municipality‘s internal auditor, Evans Chesango, highlighted the critical role of internal audits and risk management. He discussed the need for committees to identify potential risks, evaluate the effectiveness of risk management strategies, and provide recommendations for improvement.

“Assessing governance and compliance is essential for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of our educational institutions,” Chesango noted.

The workshop saw participation from school heads, deputies, senior teachers, SDC members, councilors, and municipal officials, all united in their commitment to improving education in Kariba.

As the workshop progresses, the municipality aims to foster a collaborative environment that empowers schools to operate more effectively within the council’s framework.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in enhancing educational standards and ensuring that schools in Kariba are equipped to meet the challenges of modern education.