RMI OAG hosted the 34th Annual APIPA Conference

September 6, 2023

Majuro, Marshall Islands: The Republic of the Marshall Islands’ Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) was pleased and honored to host the 34^th annual conference and workshop of the Association of Pacific Islands Public Auditors (APIPA) during the week of August 28 to September 1, 2023 in Majuro, the capitol of the RMI. Over 400 participants attended the week-long conference and workshop. This was the first in-person APIPA conference since the global pandemic hit us and APIPA resorted to virtual training in the last three years. The theme for the APIPA conference was “Shining a Light on Public Accountability”. One of the founding principles of APIPA is to promote the use of public resources and strengthen the auditing and accounting profession across its member jurisdictions. Since its inception, APIPA has offered professional and capacity development trainings to its members. A total of 2,190 course certificates were awarded to 406 participants, reflecting 13,804 continuing professional education units during the 2023 APIPA conference.

The training courses this year were designed to respond to emerging issues and trends across accounting, finance, management, and auditing sectors across APIPA jurisdictions. The audit tracks were held at the Marshall Islands Resort while the finance management and leadership courses were at the International Convention Center throughout the week. The APIPA Principals (Executive Body) also held its annual meeting during the week.

The 34^th APIPA conference also included several planned after-hour activities which included a Night Market which was coordinated with the RMI Office of Commerce, Investment, and Tourism where locals showcased their beautiful handicrafts, and tasty local food, along with great music and entertainment for our visiting participants.

“The OAG was honored to be the host of the recently concluded 34^th annual workshop and conference of APIPA here in Majuro. The annual workshop is a training opportunity for auditors and accountants to improve their skills relevant to their roles, and enable them to perform to their full potential. What is good for the development of our staff is also good for our organizational performance, productivity, and quality. I am positive that the participants at the 34^th annual APIPA conference found great value in their time here in Majuro, and will return to contribute more to their respective organizations” Auditor-General and Chairman of the 2023 APIPA, Mr. Junior Patrick said.

APIPA would like to extend its most sincere appreciation to the RMI Government, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the Graduate School USA for their continued support of APIPA and our annual conference.