CURBING CORRUPTION IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT

Course Description 

This course provides a comprehensive examination of the challenges and strategies involved in combating corruption within the context of public procurement. Students will explore the underlying causes of corruption in procurement processes, assess the impacts of corruption on governance and development, and analyze best practices for promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity. Through case studies, interactive discussions, and practical exercises, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively identify, prevent, and address corrupt practices in public procurement.

Target audience

• Senior Managers,
• Middle Managers,
• Supply Chain Management Practitioners
• Bid Committee members and other officials involved in SCM decision-making capacity

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this course, learners would be able to know:

• Understand the concept of corruption and its manifestations within public procurement systems.
• Identify the key actors, processes, and stages vulnerable to corruption in procurement cycles.
• Analyze the social, economic, and political impacts of corruption on public procurement outcomes and governance.
• Examine international legal frameworks, standards, and guidelines for combating corruption in procurement.
• Explore anti-corruption strategies, tools, and mechanisms for promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity.
• Develop skills in risk assessment, monitoring, and enforcement to detect and prevent corrupt practices.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to design and implement effective anti-corruption measures tailored to specific procurement contexts.

Course Content/Syllabus/Topics

Module 1: Understanding Corruption in Public Procurement

• Definition and forms of corruption in the context of procurement
• Causes and consequences of corruption in public procurement
• The role of transparency, accountability, and integrity in combating corruption

Module 2: Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

• International conventions and legal instruments addressing corruption in procurement
• National laws, regulations, and policies governing public procurement integrity
• Compliance requirements and enforcement mechanisms for anti-corruption measures

Module 3: Corruption Risks and Vulnerabilities

• Identifying corruption risks at different stages of the procurement process
• Common red flags and indicators of corrupt practices
• Conducting risk assessments and vulnerability analyses in procurement activities

Module 4: Promoting Transparency and Accountability

• Open contracting principles and practices for enhancing transparency in procurement
• Public access to procurement information and data disclosure requirements
• Accountability mechanisms, including oversight bodies, audits, and reporting mechanisms

Module 5: Integrity in Procurement Practices

• Ethical procurement standards and codes of conduct for public officials and suppliers
• Conflict of interest management and disclosure requirements
• Whistleblower protection and reporting mechanisms for corruption allegations

Module 6: Anti-Corruption Strategies and Tools

• Procurement fraud detection and investigation techniques
• Integrity pacts, anti-bribery clauses, and anti-corruption certifications
• Use of technology and data analytics for corruption prevention and detection

Module 7: Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening

• Building procurement capacity and professionalization to prevent corruption
• Strengthening institutional frameworks and governance structures
• Training and awareness-raising initiatives for stakeholders involved in procurement processes

Module 8: Case Studies and Best Practices

• Analysis of successful anti-corruption initiatives and interventions in public procurement
• Lessons learned and best practices from international and national experiences