Centre at AGP HQ opens: Aurangzeb for AI and use of bots to boost analytics

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday inaugurated the Centre for Government Data Analytics at the Auditor-General of Pakistan Headquarters.

The federal minister appreciated the establishment of the Centre for Government Data Analytics and emphasized adopting modern technologies of data analysis, including Machine Learning, AI-Based Auditing and the use of bots for performing analytical functions.

He further advised to digitally access all data available on various databases of public sector organizations. These measures will enhance the audit coverage, transparency, and accountability of public money.

During the visit of the Finance Minister, the Auditor-General of Pakistan, Maqbool Ahmad Gondal, emphasized a strategic shift from quantity to quality of audits, focusing on entity- and project-based reporting, and fostering a constructive and collaborative environment with auditable entities. Audit is increasingly being used as a tool for improving governance, he stressed.

On reforms and modernization, the Auditor-General outlined his digital transformation initiatives, including the implementation of the Audit Management Information System (AMIS), the establishment of a Centre for Government Data Analytics, and the adoption of data analytics tools to enhance audit efficiency, effectiveness, and transparency.

The centre has been established in line with the vision of the Prime Minister of Pakistan for broader digitalization of the economy. With the cashless economy initiative moving ahead at a great pace, more digital data will be available, which this centre will access on a real basis to analyse.

The Controller General of Accounts, Umar Ali Khan, briefed the Minister on CGA’s mandate and performance as the premier Public Financial Management institution responsible for government accounting, pre-audit of payments, and financial reporting.

CGA continues to strengthen accounting systems and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting. The Controller General of Accounts achieved the targets of a cashless/digital public sector economy, the Micro Payment Gateway (MPG), RAAST, online billing, migration to SAP HANA, and centralized HP Super Dom servers in line with the vision of the Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan.

The transition to accrual-based accounting in line with international standards is also underway with the support of the World Bank. Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to continued reforms, digitalization, and collaboration with stakeholders to further strengthen transparency, accountability, and efficient use of public resources for the benefit of Pakistani citizens.

The Federal Minister appreciated the initiatives taken by the Auditor-General of Pakistan in promoting transparency and good governance.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025