KPMG Singapore and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) have introduced a new learning programme aimed at transforming accountancy for future business requirements.
This initiative, announced at ACCA’s Annual Conference 2024, aims to address the urgent need for (environmental, social, and governance) ESG skills in accountancy and create inclusive pathways for non-accountancy graduates by enhancing their professional skills.
The programme is a direct response to the Accountancy Workforce Review Committee’s May 2024 report, which called for improved ESG capabilities among accountancy professionals.
The initiative offers specialised ESG training and seeks to ensure accountants remain indispensable in advancing sustainable business practices and addresses the evolving skill requirements of the sector.
With sustainability reporting said to be becoming critical, there is a surging demand for accountants with ESG expertise to lead sustainable business practices across industries.
ACCA’s 2024 worldwide survey of employers indicated a growing demand for ESG-related skills, including ethics and leadership, with an increase in the need for sustainability and green finance expertise.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataResearch by KPMG highlights that more than half of the current financial services job roles will require upskilling in sustainability.
Those with ESG expertise are expected to enjoy higher demand and diverse career prospects.
ACCA Singapore country manager Daniel Leung said: “ACCA is proud to partner with KPMG to launch this important programme, which will equip industry talents with the skills needed to shape a sustainable future.
“This initiative also aligns perfectly with our Annual Conference theme, ‘Reinventing the Profession for a Changed World,’ as we continue to foster the flexible skills necessary for the evolving profession.”
The programme consists of free masterclasses divided into two tracks.
The foundational track covers ESG knowledge areas such as climate risk, while the advanced track is designed for senior finance leaders, focusing on strategic planning and decision-making.
These also allow participants to pursue ACCA’s Certificate in Sustainability of Finance or the Professional Diploma in Sustainability for additional credentials.
It will offer participants benefit from collaborative knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities, engaging with industry experts from KPMG and ACCA.
KPMG Singapore partner and Audit head Alex Koh said: Our collaboration with ACCA to introduce the ESG future skills programme is more than just providing access— it is about building on qualities and fundamentals that accountants already possess and applying these to emerging areas.”
Earlier in October 2024, KPMG unveiled ESG Playbook to empower Singapore charities on their ESG journey.
The guide, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, aims to support more than 2,300 charities and Institutions of Public Character (IPCs) in Singapore.
In March 2023, KPMG had partnered with four other organisations, through the KPMG ASEAN Decarbonisation Hub, to equip businesses in the region to meet their sustainability goals.
