Strengthening public-sector auditing across the Dutch Caribbean and Suriname
During my first week at the Algemene Rekenkamer Aruba, after officially starting on October 13, I had the unexpected privilege of joining a regional training that turned out to be both inspiring and transformative.
Thanks to a thoughtful invitation from the Algemene Rekenkamer Curaçao, I traveled to Willemstad to participate in the Performance and Compliance Audit Training delivered by Bill Rafuse, CPA, CIA.
Over four days, new auditors from Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Suriname, Curaçao and Aruba, gathered to deepen our understanding of public-sector auditing. While the program touched on elements and principles of compliance, the sessions primarily focused on performance auditing and the way we evaluate economy, efficiency and effectiveness within government activities and operations.
What made the experience stand out wasn’t only the technical knowledge. It was the dynamic blend of practical examples, engaging discussions and the shared commitment to strengthening good governance across our countries. Every session offered new insights that we could immediately envision applying in our own institutions.
We explored how to refine audit objectives, shape stronger criteria and design evidence-gathering approaches that genuinely support clear and reliable reporting. Each participant brought unique perspectives shaped by their country’s context, making the conversations richer and far more dynamic.
At every step, Bill guided us with patience and real-world insight, grounding each concept in ISSAI standards while keeping the atmosphere open, interactive and motivating.
And of course, being in Curaçao added an extra layer of warmth to the week. The island’s vibrant colors, welcoming people and lively rhythm made the entire experience even more memorable. It felt like the perfect setting to learn, grow and build new professional connections.
I’m truly grateful for the opportunity, for everything I learned, for the connections made, knowledge sharing and for the renewed motivation to contribute meaningfully to the work we do at the Algemene Rekenkamer Aruba.
Masha danki @ Algemene Rekenkamer Curaçao, Stephanie
