Abstract:
This study evaluated the impact of financial reporting on financial accountability in public universities in Kenya. The study was anchored on Accountability Theory and Financial Accounting Theory. The target population comprised 409 respondents drawn from finance officers, council chairpersons, vice-chancellors, internally generated income coordinators, accountants, and internal auditors. A sample of 202 participants was determined using Yamane’s formula. Employing a descriptive research design, primary data were collected through structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The linear regression model showed a negative and significant effect of financial reporting on financial accountability (unsupported expenditure) in the public universities in Kenya, with a regression coefficient of -0.287. The study concludes that effective application of financial reporting practices enhances financial accountability by curbing unsupported expenditures in Kenyan public universities. It recommends structured capacity-building for accounting staff and the
establishment of robust authorization and approval frameworks to strengthen fiscal discipline and governance integrity.
