Job Summary
- Employer: Lerotholi Polytechnic
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Maseru, Lesotho
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-10-30
Key Responsibilities
- Develop the annual audit plan for Governing Council approval.
- Conduct risk assessments across schools, departments, and functional areas.
- Prepare and update internal audit programs for operational audits and special reviews.
- Execute risk-based internal audits in line with the approved annual plan.
- Perform audit tests to ensure compliance with accreditation, statutory, and regulatory requirements.
- Support external audit preparation and implementation to ensure smooth operations.
- Conduct audits across financial, operational, administrative, and academic processes.
- Evaluate the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and suitability of internal controls.
- Verify the validity and reliability of financial and operational data.
- Manage audit engagement planning, execution, reporting, and follow-up.
- Assess business processes and transactions for control efficiency and risk mitigation.
- Review revenue collection processes to ensure completeness, accuracy, and effectiveness.
- Document audit findings and draft actionable recommendations for Senior Management and the Governing Council.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (B.Acc Hons, B.Com Acc Hons, or B.Com Internal Audit), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or equivalent qualification.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in internal auditing.
- Membership with the Institute of Internal Auditors in Lesotho.
- Completion of Articles of Clerkship with a recognized audit firm will be an added advantage.
How to Apply
Address: P.O. Box 16
About the Company
Lerotholi Polytechnic is a public technical and vocational education institution in Maseru, Lesotho, established in 1972 and named after Chief Lerotholi, a prominent Basotho leader. The polytechnic offers diploma and certificate programs in engineering, business studies, information technology, and applied sciences, serving as a key training ground for skilled labor in the country. It operates under the Ministry of Education and Training of Lesotho, with campuses in Maseru and satellite facilities in other districts. The institution maintains partnerships with regional and international bodies to align its curriculum with industry needs in Lesotho and the broader Southern African region.
Skills for self-reliance and national development
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Internal Auditor position at Lerotholi Polytechnic?
A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Auditing is usually required, with professional certifications like ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW being highly advantageous. Membership with the Lesotho Institute of Accountants (LIA) is often expected for senior roles. Some employers may accept candidates with a Diploma in Accounting plus substantial relevant experience.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Internal Auditor at a public institution like Lerotholi Polytechnic?
Daily tasks include examining financial records, evaluating internal controls, and ensuring compliance with the Public Financial Management Act and Treasury regulations. You will conduct risk assessments, prepare audit reports, and present findings to management and audit committees. Regular interaction with various departments to verify asset management and procurement processes is also common.
How does the work culture and professional environment differ in Lesotho's public sector compared to private companies?
Public sector roles in Lesotho typically emphasize formal hierarchies, extensive documentation, and adherence to government regulations and audit standards. Decision-making may involve more layers of approval compared to private firms. However, job security is generally stronger, and there is growing emphasis on transparency and accountability following public sector reforms.
What career progression opportunities exist for Internal Auditors in Lesotho's public sector?
Progression typically moves from Internal Auditor to Senior Internal Auditor, then to Chief Internal Auditor or Head of Internal Audit. With experience, you may transition to broader financial management roles such as Finance Director or Accountant-General positions. Further professional qualifications and specialized training in IT auditing or forensic accounting can accelerate advancement.
What benefits are commonly offered for Internal Auditor positions in Lesotho's public institutions?
Benefits usually include pension contributions through the Public Officers' Defined Contribution Pension Fund, medical aid schemes, and generous annual leave entitlements. Public sector roles often provide study leave for professional examinations and job security rarely matched in the private sector. Specific benefits vary by institution and are governed by Public Service regulations.
How should I apply for an Internal Auditor role at Lerotholi Polytechnic, and what do employers in Lesotho prioritize in candidates?
Applications are typically submitted through the Public Service Commission or directly to the institution following advertised procedures, requiring a detailed CV, certified copies of qualifications, and references. Lesotho employers prioritize demonstrated integrity, knowledge of public financial regulations, and strong analytical and report-writing skills. Practical experience with government accounting systems and familiarity with Lesotho's legal framework give candidates a significant advantage.