The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants has announced a design of its gold-standard ACCA Qualification as the accountancy profession continues to expand and change.
ACCA said the redesign will reflect the increasing role of accountants in driving the widening value needed for business services, combining profitability with ethics, sustainability, the ability to leverage new technology and the agility to deal with economic volatility.
The organisation also expects that the redesigned qualification will introduce a more integrated learning and assessment experience, including "AI-enhanced learning journeys" designed to equip the next generation with the skills and technical expertise they need to succeed.
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.
"Accountancy is being redefined. Accountants are drivers of sustainable business, promoters of social value, and enablers of new technologies," said Helen Brand, CEO of ACCA.
"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 Modules will be introduced as each of the qualification's three levels to provide simulated works experiences on topics such as digital tech, ethics, sustainability and business management.
There will also be improved awards and designations to allow students to demonstrate their skills to employers at every stage of their ACCA journey.
Technology, sustainability and ethics will be woven into the qualification at every stage, and an optional Data Science Professional exam will be introduced at the final ‘Strategic Professional’ level.
"The ACCA Qualification has always been the gold standard, globally recognised and highly valued by employers in Ireland. It will remain as rigorous, relevant, and future-focused as ever, with an even sharper focus on employability," said Stephen Noonan, head of ACCA Ireland.
"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."
Photo: Stephen Noonan. (Pic: Supplied)
