University of Ghana Leads in Payroll Clean-Up and Financial Accountability
A recent Auditor-General’s Report has revealed that the University of Ghana was responsible for 68% of all payroll-related savings made by the state between 2022 and 2024. The finding highlights the university’s major contribution to efforts aimed at cleaning up Ghana’s public payroll system.
According to the report, the University of Ghana saved approximately GH¢34.8 million by identifying and eliminating ghost names, wrongful salary payments, and other payroll anomalies within the three-year period. This represents the largest single-institutional contribution to the Auditor-General’s payroll savings during the timeframe.
The savings were part of a broader national effort spearheaded by the Auditor-General’s Department to streamline payroll systems in public institutions, combat waste, and promote efficient use of state resources.
The Auditor-General commended the university for its internal vigilance and collaboration during the audit process, describing the institution as “a model for payroll accountability.” The university reportedly worked closely with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department and other auditing bodies to ensure real-time validation of employee data and payments.
Observers say this achievement could serve as a benchmark for other public institutions, especially in light of ongoing concerns about bloated payrolls and fiscal leakages in the public sector.
Financial experts have urged the government to institutionalize the auditing mechanisms used at the University of Ghana across all tertiary institutions and public bodies, noting that doing so could significantly improve public sector efficiency and reduce financial losses.
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