Introduction to the PEFA Framework

Course Description

This comprehensive course, "Introduction to the PEFA Framework," offered by WBGx, is designed to provide a thorough understanding of the Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) framework. PEFA is a globally recognized tool for assessing public financial management (PFM) performance, crucial for effective and efficient use of public resources in delivering essential services and achieving long-term development goals.

What students will learn

  • Understanding of public financial management (PFM) and its importance in sustainable development
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the PEFA framework, its structure, and application
  • Skills to interpret and use PEFA assessments for improving PFM systems
  • Insights into the PEFA assessment process and its implementation

Prerequisites

This is an introductory-level course with no specific prerequisites. However, a basic understanding of economics, finance, or public administration would be beneficial.

Course Content

  • Introduction to public financial management (PFM) and its role in sustainable development
  • Overview of the PEFA program and its significance
  • Detailed exploration of the PEFA framework, its key concepts, and principles
  • Structure of the PEFA framework: 7 pillars, 31 indicators, and 94 dimensions
  • Scoring methodology and interpretation of PEFA assessments
  • Application of the PEFA framework in evaluating PFM performance
  • The ten-step process for conducting a PEFA assessment
  • Real-world examples and case studies of PEFA implementations

Who this course is for

  • Government officials involved in public financial management
  • Policymakers and decision-makers in the public sector
  • Development professionals and consultants
  • Economists and financial analysts working on public sector projects
  • Students and researchers in public administration, economics, and finance
  • Anyone interested in understanding and improving public financial management systems

Real-world applications

The skills acquired in this course will enable learners to:

  1. Evaluate and understand the strengths and weaknesses of a country's PFM system
  2. Contribute to the design and implementation of PFM reform programs
  3. Participate in or lead PEFA assessments in various countries
  4. Provide informed recommendations for improving public financial management
  5. Support sustainable development initiatives through better resource allocation and management
  6. Enhance transparency and accountability in public financial systems
  7. Collaborate effectively with international organizations and development partners on PFM projects

Syllabus

Module 1: Introducing PEFA

  • Understanding public financial management (PFM)
  • The role of PFM in sustainable development
  • Introduction to the PEFA program
  • The importance of the PEFA framework

Module 2: What is PEFA Framework

  • Key concepts and principles of the PEFA framework
  • Structure and components of the framework
  • Using PEFA to assess PFM systems
  • Supporting governments in PFM improvement

Module 3: How to Apply the PEFA Framework

  • Detailed exploration of the 7 pillars, 31 indicators, and 94 dimensions
  • Scoring methodology (A to D)
  • Evaluating alignment with international good practices
  • Practical application of indicators and dimensions

Module 4: Managing a PEFA Assessment

  • The ten-step process for PEFA assessments
  • Planning and stakeholder engagement
  • Data collection and analysis
  • Reporting and follow-up actions

Each module includes quizzes to test understanding, and a final quiz must be completed successfully to receive a course completion certificate.