ABU DHABI, 6th November, 2023 (WAM) -- The 4th annual meeting of the INTOSAI Working Group on Impact of Science and Technology on Auditing (WGISTA) kicked off today at the Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, running until 7th November.
A collaborative effort by the UAE’s Supreme Audit Institution and the International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions, the event has attracted representatives from over 30 countries to deliberate on the integration of technological advancements into the auditing sector for the enhancement of public fund protection and the detection and combat of fiscal discrepancies.
Opening remarks were made by a representative from the SAI UAE, who emphasised the collective vision of preserving public assets, highlighting the necessity for auditors to keep abreast of the ever-evolving technological landscape to future-proof auditing methodologies.
"The role of WGISTA transcends the simple adaptation to new tech; it's about forecasting and being ahead of the curve," the spokesperson added.
Addressing the assembly, Gene Dodaro, Vice-Chair of WGISTA and a figurehead from the US Government Accountability Office (GAO), said, "I'm proud to welcome each member of the Working Group, and thank you for your enduring commitment and collaboration. Our mission has always been to ensure public sector auditing is in step with technological strides. Given our successful track record and the foresight of SAI UAE's leadership, I am optimistic about our continued impact and evolution in public sector auditing."
Over the next two days, the meeting will explore diverse subjects, including the Future Leadership of WGISTA and Next Steps, Environmental Scan on SAI Capabilities on Emerging Technologies and Auditability in the Public Sector, The Impact of Automation and AI, Use of Image Processing Software and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones) to Deliver Analytical Insights During Audit, and more.
Key insights will be shared by Minister Vital do Rego, Vice President of the Brazilian Court of Audit, and the Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority will showcase 'Al Mersad' - the pioneering AI-integrated auditing data system.
WGISTA is committed to guiding member SAIs in navigating the shifting dynamics of the auditing landscape, ensuring that responses to technological changes are both strategic and conducive to overcoming potential disruptions in the field.