Mr. Angelos Binis, Governor of the National Transparency Authority (NTA), participated in the 96th Conference of Rectors and Presidents of the Greek Universities Governing Boards, which was held under the Presidency of the University of Thessaly, from April 20th to April 23rd, 2021, via videoconference.
Mr. Binis presented the structural elements of the Internal Audit System, as described in Law 4795/2021. He analysed the importance of the risk management function and the Internal Audit Unit as key safety nets for achieving the operational objectives of university institutions, improving governance processes, and ensuring good financial management.
The members of the teaching and research staff who participated in the webinar had the chance to vote online using the 'Mentimeter' platform. The results of the vote contributed to an interactive and engaging discussion about the challenges and benefits of implementing an integrated Internal Audit System in academic institutions across the country.
The NTA proposed specific actions to support universities in their efforts to strengthen internal safeguards and develop effective internal audit functions:
a) by providing access to the "Internal Auditors Network of Public Administration" website
b) by holding a skills development seminar for administrative and financial department officers; and
c) by holding thematic discussions at each university on the specific challenges and opportunities related to the strengthening of accountability mechanisms and good governance.