Latest news with #KushAhuja
Biz Bahrain
25-06-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
ACCA announces redesign of qualification for a redefined accountancy profession
Global accountancy body ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has announced a redesign of its gold standard ACCA Qualification focused on a redefinition of accountancy which is expanding and reshaping the role of the profession. The redesign reflects the increasing role of accountants in driving the widening value needed for business success, combining profitability with ethics, sustainability, the ability to leverage new technology and the agility to deal with economic volatility. Similar changes are being seen in the public sector. Responding to and anticipating the evolving needs of employers, the changes build on the current strengths of the ACCA Qualification. They will introduce a more integrated learning and assessment experience, including AI-enhanced learning journeys, designed to equip the next generation with the professional skills and technical expertise they need to succeed in a dynamic and volatile world. The announcement follows extensive consultation with members, employers and learning providers around the world, as well as representatives of Gen Z. The redesigned qualification will be introduced from mid-2027. Helen Brand, chief executive of ACCA, said: 'Accountancy is being redefined. Accountants are drivers of sustainable business, promoters of social value, and enablers of new technologies. They are sharpening their financial and ethical skills for a changed world of ever-shifting opportunities and challenges. They innovate with new business models and fresh thinking about what success looks like. They focus on people, planet and prosperity to create value for all. 'The changes we're making will equip the next generation for this exciting new future that will bring wider and more varied opportunities.' Employability is a key focus of the changes, which include the introduction of Employability Modules at each of the qualification's three levels, providing simulated work experiences on topics such as digital tech, ethics, sustainability and business management. Enhanced awards and designations recognise achievement and allow students to demonstrate their skills to employers at every stage of their ACCA journey. Technology, sustainability and ethics, already integral to the ACCA Qualification, will be interwoven at every stage. Another innovation is a new Data Science Professional exam which students can choose as an option at the final 'Strategic Professional' level. Kush Ahuja, Head of Eurasia and Middle East at ACCA, said: 'The ACCA Qualification has always been the gold standard, globally recognised and highly valued by employers in the Middle East. It will remain as rigorous, relevant, and future-focused as ever, with an even sharper focus on employability. 'The redesigned qualification comes together as a unified experience at each of its three levels with learning guidance and support, assessments, employability support, and help to develop skills. Students will benefit from tailored learning journeys supported by AI technology and a digital mentor.' ACCA has prepared a smooth transition for all students currently on, or about to start, their ACCA journey. Existing achievements will be recognised and there will be no disadvantage in terms of progression and the cost to complete the qualification. ACCA students will continue to benefit from the opportunity to attain a world-leading academic qualification alongside their ACCA studies with our new BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy collaboration with the University of London. ACCA is known for its focus on inclusion and opportunity. A redesigned 'Foundations' route requiring no prior qualifications provides those not meeting the entry criteria for the ACCA Qualification with a way to meet it. Find out more at
Mid East Info
24-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
ACCA announces redesign of qualification for a redefined accountancy profession - Middle East Business News and Information
Future ACCA Qualification unveiled as employers look to accountants to take broader role in embracing AI-driven technology and driving sustainable business Global accountancy body ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has announced a redesign of its gold standard ACCA Qualification focused on a redefinition of accountancy which is expanding and reshaping the role of the profession. The redesign reflects the increasing role of accountants in driving the widening value needed for business success, combining profitability with ethics, sustainability, the ability to leverage new technology and the agility to deal with economic volatility. Similar changes are being seen in the public sector. Responding to and anticipating the evolving needs of employers, the changes build on the current strengths of the ACCA Qualification. They will introduce a more integrated learning and assessment experience, including AI-enhanced learning journeys, designed to equip the next generation with the professional skills and technical expertise they need to succeed in a dynamic and volatile world. The announcement follows extensive consultation with members, employers and learning providers around the world, as well as representatives of Gen Z. The redesigned qualification will be introduced from mid-2027. Helen Brand, chief executive of ACCA, said: 'Accountancy is being redefined. Accountants are drivers of sustainable business, promoters of social value, and enablers of new technologies. They are sharpening their financial and ethical skills for a changed world of ever-shifting opportunities and challenges. They innovate with new business models and fresh thinking about what success looks like. They focus on people, planet and prosperity to create value for all. 'The changes we're making will equip the next generation for this exciting new future that will bring wider and more varied opportunities.' Employability is a key focus of the changes, which include the introduction of Employability Modules at each of the qualification's three levels, providing simulated work experiences on topics such as digital tech, ethics, sustainability and business management. Enhanced awards and designations recognise achievement and allow students to demonstrate their skills to employers at every stage of their ACCA journey. Technology, sustainability and ethics, already integral to the ACCA Qualification, will be interwoven at every stage. Another innovation is a new Data Science Professional exam which students can choose as an option at the final 'Strategic Professional' level. Kush Ahuja, Head of Eurasia and Middle East at ACCA, said: 'The ACCA Qualification has always been the gold standard, globally recognised and highly valued by employers in the Middle East . It will remain as rigorous, relevant, and future-focused as ever, with an even sharper focus on employability. 'The redesigned qualification comes together as a unified experience at each of its three levels with learning guidance and support, assessments, employability support, and help to develop skills. Students will benefit from tailored learning journeys supported by AI technology and a digital mentor.' ACCA has prepared a smooth transition for all students currently on, or about to start, their ACCA journey. Existing achievements will be recognised and there will be no disadvantage in terms of progression and the cost to complete the qualification. ACCA students will continue to benefit from the opportunity to attain a world-leading academic qualification alongside their ACCA studies with our new BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy collaboration with the University of London. ACCA is known for its focus on inclusion and opportunity. A redesigned 'Foundations' route requiring no prior qualifications provides those not meeting the entry criteria for the ACCA Qualification with a way to meet it. Find out more at
Mid East Info
12-03-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Governments should grasp gender-responsive budgeting as an opportunity to address systemic gender disparities
Gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) should be seen by policymakers and governments as a key tool for driving inclusive growth and systemic change. In new research, Gender-responsive budgeting: unlocking the potential, global accountancy body ACCA draws on the experience of professional accountants and leaders across Eastern Europe, Eurasia and the Middle East. Joe Fitzsimons, senior manager, Policy and insights, ACCA, said: 'This report offers critical insights into the strategies and tools that facilitate the effective adoption of GRB across government agencies and state-owned organisations. Accountants have a vital role in the application of GRB using their skills and knowledge of data analysis, budgetary techniques and policy advocacy. They can also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of GRB implementation. Governments are increasingly turning to GRB as they pursue more equitable and just societies.' The Middle East Institute has recommended that the full participation of women on national adoption plans represents a key opportunity to develop gender-response policies and actions. Kush Ahuja, Head of Middle East and Eurasia, ACCA, said: 'At ACCA we demonstrate the profession's ability to lead in addressing the world's more pressing issues. We look forward to working with government, policymakers, business and other stakeholders to see how GRB can be adopted as a force for good in the region.' The report recommends policy makers adopt the following to move towards implementing GRB: Build institutional capacity and awareness Strengthen data collection and analysis Learn from best practice and benchmark against peers Establish inter-ministerial collaboration and partnerships Champion gender-balanced leadership and decision-making. Jessica Bingham, Global Sustainability Lead – Strategy, ACCA, said: 'Incorporating gender considerations into budgetary processes enables governments to ensure that resources are allocated in a way that meets the diverse needs of all. This in turn promotes fairness but also lays the foundations required for sustainable economic growth and social inclusion. Policymakers have an opportunity to embrace GRB and ensure it is a fundamental component of their strategies creating a more equitable future for all.' Read the report here.
Zawya
05-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
ACCA report: Accountants' role in AI adoption extends beyond traditional financial controls
Findings from the latest in ACCA's series of AI Monitor reports, Risk and Responsibility, underscore the vital role of professional judgement in ensuring the successful adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). As organisations in the Middle East accelerate AI integration, accounting professionals are uniquely positioned to guide ethical and effective implementation, balancing innovation with robust governance. 'In the Middle East, as AI technologies become integral to business operations, accounting professionals play a crucial role in connecting technological potential with practical application. Their expertise ensures that AI initiatives are not only innovative but also aligned with ethical standards and strategic objectives,' comments Kush Ahuja, Head of Eurasia and Middle East at ACCA. The Risk and Responsibility report highlights that while AI has the potential to enhance human capabilities, it also presents challenges related to control, reliability and professional responsibility. For organisations in the Middle East, where AI adoption is expanding rapidly, it is essential to balance technological advancements with strong governance frameworks. When it comes to classifying AI risks, a couple of immediate threats for many organisations relate to the significant amounts of investment being committed and either unrealistic expectations or poor judgement concerning the potential impact of integration. While AI continues to promise huge potential, real value remains far more elusive and difficult to quantify. ACCA believes success will come through combining traditional financial acumen with new forms of technological oversight to maintain the profession's fundamental role as arbiters of trust and integrity. These capabilities don't replace professional judgement, but underscore its importance. Professional judgement and critical thinking will be fundamental to dealing with AI-generated insights. Demonstrating the application of professional expertise and documenting how decisions are made when using AI is important to support transparency and accountability. Alistair Brisbourne, head of technology research, ACCA, said: "Safely introducing AI into how our organisations work and make decisions isn't just about technology - it's about redefining how we exercise things like professional judgement. As regulatory frameworks evolve and AI capabilities expand, success will depend on striking the right balance: leveraging AI's analytical power while strengthening professional expertise." "Traditional concepts of materiality and professional scepticism are being reframed in the context of AI systems that can analyse entire datasets rather than samples during an audit, for example. This shift challenges accountants to think differently about risk assessment and the nature of professional evidence." While professionals don't need to be technical experts, they need sufficient understanding to exercise appropriate judgement. Being an AI specialist in every application is impossible. Instead, the profession needs to develop consistent frameworks that ensure uniformity in language and practice across different projects and applications. The report points out that accountants are uniquely positioned to harness AI's potential while maintaining robust safeguards. But their role in AI risk management extends beyond traditional financial controls. Moving forward, their contribution must reflect a three-layered approach: data, architecture, and business impact. Brisbourne added: "Organisations need to build principles of transparency, accountability and clear procedures for monitoring and improvement into their AI adoption and implementation plans. If they do that, they'll find themselves well-positioned to leverage new capabilities and meet changing regulatory and stakeholder expectations." Read the shorthand report. Middle East media contacts: Natalie Glorney natalie@ Sheila Tobias sheila@ For media enquiries, contact: ACCA News Room E: newsroom@ About ACCA We are ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), a globally recognised professional accountancy body providing qualifications and advancing standards in accountancy worldwide. Founded in 1904 to widen access to the accountancy profession, we've long championed inclusion and today proudly support a diverse community of over 252,500 members and 526,000 future members in 180 countries. Our forward-looking qualifications, continuous learning and insights are respected and valued by employers in every sector. They equip individuals with the business and finance expertise and ethical judgment to create, protect, and report the sustainable value delivered by organisations and economies. Guided by our purpose and values, our ambition is to lead the accountancy profession for a changed world. Partnering with policymakers, standard setters, the donor community, educators and other accountancy bodies, we're strengthening and building a profession that drives a sustainable future for all. Find out more at:
