The performance of the internal audit functions in higher education institutions: the auditees perspective

Abstract

State-owned universities worldwide are facing challenges that cast doubt on the effectiveness of their internal audit departments. The objective of the study was to assess the current state of internal audit functions in terms of performance in Zimbabwe's higher education institutions. The research utilised a multi-case study approach, focusing specifically on state universities in Zimbabwe. Data was collected through a survey distributed to auditees in these state-owned universities and analysed the responses using multiple regression analysis. For rigor and robustness, the quantitative data was triangulated with the qualitative analysis of the auditor general reports covering the years 2013 to 2021. The qualitative findings showed that auditees generally lacked knowledge about the performance of internal audit functions in public universities. Further, the auditor general reports revealed the malpractices in state universities in the presence of internal auditors. The study recommends raising awareness about the importance of internal audit functions within university communities through training, education and displaying the internal audit charter on the university website. The auditor general must be proactive by conducting audits of the internal audit function in the state-owned universities. The lack of awareness about the internal audit function despite over a decade of existence in the ZSUs is an indication of the low value attached to the departments.