An assessment of internal control systems at world vision Uganda

Abstract

The study focused on an assessment of internal control systems at World Vision Uganda. The study was guided by the objectives of the study: to examine the internal control systems, to assess the challenges of implementing internal control systems and to suggest the strategies for solving the challenges of implementing internal control systems at World Vision Uganda. The researcher used descriptive research survey with the intention of obtaining both qualitative and quantitative aspect of data and to organize data in an effective and meaningful way. The study adopted both quantitative and qualitative data collection approaches. A sample of 55 respondents was selected using simple random sampling technique together with purposive sampling which helped the researcher to collect information from the specific respondents. The research instruments for data collection were validated by preparing and presenting them to the supervisor who checked on their correctness and the reliability of the instruments was established through a pilot test of the questionnaire to ensure consistency and dependability and its ability to tap data that would answer the objectives of the study. The study used questionnaire and interview guide as instruments for data collection. The findings of the study revealed that control environment as one of the internal control systems provides the discipline and structure to influence the overall quality of the Internal Control Systems. Further risk assessment is the internal control system used at World Vision Uganda to identify and analyze the relevant risks for improved service delivery of the organization, forming a basis for determining how the risks should be managed. Also, information and communication is the most reliable internal control system that facilitates financial planning as well as effective communication, internally throughout the organization and externally to stakeholders. The study found out that separation of duties and user access rights for information systems give challenges to those in charge of implementing internal control systems at World Vision Uganda, strict monitoring and guidance of supervisor encourages the employees and workers to be more disciplined in their activities. The study recommended that designing appropriate reward practices should be one of the strategies undertaken to improve internal control systems