Date :November 20, 2024
📍 Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS)
As part of the capacity-building activities within the NGS-4-ECOPROD project, a focused workshop on Financial Capacity Building was successfully conducted on November 20, 2025 at the Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS).
This workshop was expertly facilitated by Mr. Fakher Gadour, a key member of the Governance Unit at CBS, whose expertise in financial management and project governance proved invaluable in guiding participants through critical aspects of financial oversight in research projects.
Objectives and Scope
The workshop aimed to strengthen the financial management capabilities of researchers, project coordinators, and administrative personnel involved in the NGS-4-ECOPROD project by:

• Providing in-depth knowledge of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting in the context of international research projects
• Enhancing understanding of compliance requirements, including eligibility criteria for costs and audit preparedness
• Offering practical tools and best practices to ensure efficient resource allocation and accountability
• Supporting the development of robust financial monitoring systems aligned with project governance standards

Content and Activities
Participants engaged in detailed sessions covering:

• Principles of financial governance and internal controls
• Methods for preparing accurate and transparent budgets tailored to project work packages
• Guidelines for tracking expenses, justifying costs, and preparing audit documentation
• Case studies highlighting common challenges and solutions in managing project finances
• Interactive exercises designed to improve financial reporting skills and foster collaborative problem-solving

Audience and Impact
The workshop was attended by a diverse group comprising principal investigators, project managers, finance officers, and administrative staff from CBS and partner institutions. Through active participation and practical examples, attendees acquired enhanced competencies crucial for the sound financial management of NGS-4-ECOPROD and similar collaborative projects.
Conclusion
This Financial Capacity Building workshop represents a vital component of the project’s commitment to sound governance and sustainable management practices. It reinforces the importance of transparent and accountable financial stewardship as a foundation for successful research collaboration and long-term project impact.