Directions for improving the accounting and documentation of non-current assets in public higher education institutions

Abstract

In the context of modernisation of accounting in the public sector, in particular in public higher education institutions (hereinafter - HEIs), and Ukraine's integration into the European educational space, effective management of non-current assets is of particular relevance. Purpose of the study. The purpose of the article is to summarise the ways to improve the accounting and documentation of non-current assets of public higher education institutions. Research methods. The study used the methods of description and observation in the study of the criteria for recognising non-current assets of public higher education institutions. Also, the methods of systematic and comprehensive analysis were used to reveal the key stages of accounting for the recognition and disposal of non-current assets in public higher education institutions.

Results. The study identified the objects of non-current assets, taking into account the specifics of the activities of public higher education institutions. The criteria for recognising non-current assets of public higher education institutions are unified. The key stages of accounting for the recognition and disposal of non-current assets in public higher education institutions are summarised, which reveal the specifics of accounting: initial recognition of non-current assets; subsequent recognition, features of their revaluation and disposal. The author summarises the directions of improving the documentation of non-current assets in public higher education institutions, in particular, unified standard forms for accounting and write-off of non-current assets of public sector entities. Conclusions. The key areas for improving the accounting and documentation of non-current assets in the public sector are: transition to electronic document management, digitisation of acceptance and transfer certificates, inventory cards, write-off certificates, use of electronic signature (EDS/QS); introduction of an electronic register of non-current assets in public higher education institutions by identifying them through QR-coding or RFID tags.