Background of the Study
Fraudulent activities in tertiary institutions, especially within bursary departments, represent a significant challenge in Nigeria’s educational sector. These departments, responsible for managing the financial resources of students, staff, and the institution, are often prone to fraudulent practices due to the vast amounts of cash transactions they handle. Forensic accounting, which involves the use of investigative accounting techniques to detect and prevent fraud, has become an essential tool in identifying discrepancies and safeguarding public funds. This study focuses on the impact of forensic accounting on fraud prevention in the bursary departments of tertiary institutions in Zing Local Government, Taraba State, with an aim to evaluate the effectiveness of forensic auditing techniques in curbing fraudulent practices.
Statement of the Problem
Tertiary institutions in Nigeria are increasingly facing challenges related to financial fraud, especially within their bursary departments. With reports of embezzlement, manipulation of financial records, and other forms of financial misconduct, the integrity of the financial systems in these institutions has been compromised. Despite the introduction of forensic accounting practices in some Nigerian institutions, there is limited empirical research on their effectiveness in fraud prevention. This study will explore the impact of forensic accounting in reducing fraud within the bursary department of tertiary institutions in Zing Local Government, Taraba State.
Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of this study is to examine the impact of forensic accounting on fraud prevention within the bursary departments of tertiary institutions in Zing Local Government, Taraba State. The specific objectives are:
To assess the extent of fraudulent activities within the bursary departments of tertiary institutions in Zing Local Government.
To evaluate the effectiveness of forensic accounting techniques in detecting and preventing fraud in these institutions.
To recommend strategies for improving fraud prevention in the bursary departments through forensic accounting.
Research Questions
To what extent are fraudulent activities prevalent in the bursary departments of tertiary institutions in Zing Local Government?
How effective are forensic accounting techniques in preventing fraud in the bursary departments of these institutions?
What strategies can be implemented to enhance fraud prevention through forensic accounting in these institutions?
Research Hypotheses
Forensic accounting significantly reduces fraudulent activities in the bursary departments of tertiary institutions.
The application of forensic accounting techniques enhances the detection of financial fraud in tertiary institutions.
There is a positive relationship between the use of forensic accounting practices and the prevention of fraud in the bursary departments.
Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the understanding of forensic accounting as a tool for fraud prevention in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Its findings will be beneficial to educational administrators, financial managers, and policymakers, providing insights into effective strategies for managing financial risks and ensuring accountability within Nigerian tertiary institutions.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
The study will focus on tertiary institutions within Zing Local Government, Taraba State. Limitations include the difficulty of accessing detailed financial records and the potential reluctance of institutions to disclose sensitive financial information.
Definition of Terms
Forensic Accounting: The application of accounting skills to investigate financial discrepancies, fraud, and other financial crimes.
Fraud Prevention: Strategies and practices aimed at detecting and preventing fraudulent activities within an organization.
Bursary Department: The financial unit of a tertiary institution that handles the management of funds, student fees, and other financial transactions.
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