Sunday, September 14, 2025

ICAI Brainstorms on CA Curriculum to Include AI, ESG & Data Analytics

Shaping the Future of Chartered Accountancy

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), through its Board of Studies (Academic), organised a “Brainstorming Meet for Academic Excellence” in New Delhi. The event brought together ICAI leaders (past and present), industry experts, academicians, and professionals to deliberate on strengthening the academic framework of the Chartered Accountancy profession.

The sessions focused on aligning education with global benchmarks while preparing students for emerging areas such as sustainability, fintech, data science, forensic accounting, and digital learning.

ICAI Leadership on Building Next-Gen CAs

CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, President, ICAI

“Academic excellence is the cornerstone of ICAI’s global reputation. The Chartered Accountant of tomorrow must be multidimensional—a trusted advisor, technology-driven leader, global citizen, and ethical guardian of public interest.”

He emphasized ICAI’s new curriculum, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) and global standards, which integrates:

  • Practical learning

  • Technology adoption

  • Data Analytics and AI

  • ESG and Forensic Accounting

  • Soft skills and entrepreneurial development

CA. Prasanna Kumar D, Vice President, ICAI

Highlighting ICAI’s holistic approach, he said:

“We are committed not only to academic excellence but also to student well-being and confidence.”

Key initiatives include:

  • CA सारथी (CA Saarthi): A mentorship program connecting students with experienced CAs.

  • Charcha Ka Vishay: CA Pariksha: A platform to resolve exam queries and boost confidence.

Expert Deliberations on Practical & Strategic Reforms

The brainstorming meet hosted specialized sessions across taxation, accounting, law, auditing, and career development. Key recommendations included:

  • Taxation: Multidisciplinary case studies, ethical use of AI.

  • Accounting: Practical learning, gamification, CFO interactions, government accounting.

  • Law: Advocacy skills, legal interpretation, court preparedness.

  • Auditing: Practical methodologies, start-up audits for new business models.

Experts also stressed career advancement pathways, helping Chartered Accountants move from CFO roles to CEO leadership, strengthen entrepreneurial skills, and enhance strategic thinking.

ICAI’s Vision for Future-Ready Professionals

CA. Hans Raj Chugh, Chairman, BoS (A), ICAI, noted:

“Chartered Accountants are not only financial advisors but also nation builders. ICAI is reimagining how it prepares students to remain relevant and indispensable.”

He highlighted ICAI’s focus on:

  • Comprehensive study resources

  • Live virtual classes

  • Mentorship programmes

  • Open house sessions

These initiatives aim to create a supportive, digitally enabled, and globally relevant learning ecosystem.

About ICAI

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), established under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949, is the largest professional accountancy body in the world, with over 15 lakh members and students. Functioning under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, ICAI operates through:

  • 5 Regional Councils & 183 Branches in India

  • 54 Overseas Chapters & 31 Representative Offices across 85 cities in 47 countries

With its global presence and forward-looking reforms, ICAI continues to nurture competent, ethical, and future-ready Chartered Accountants.

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