NEW DELHI: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is reviewing the Chartered Accountancy (CA) curriculum to introduce new-age skills like artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, sustainability, environmental, social and governance (ESG) and forensic auditing.
The initiative is part of ICAI’s effort to ensure that newly qualified CAs have hands-on exposure to emerging technology and data tools.
ICAI president Prasanna D. Kumar said the institute has already introduced several technology-focused training programmes for students and members. It is now working on further changes to the formal education structure.
“We have professionals who have given time to build these new courses. They have been working in the industry for years and understand the gaps,” he said.
Committee for Review of Education and Training
Meanwhile, ICAI has formed the Committee for Review of Education and Training (CRET) to examine the existing CA education and training framework.
The panel will review the syllabus, practical training, soft skills and communication training, as well as examination methods, and recommend changes to align the programme with the current developments in the profession.
The CRET is expected to complete its work by December and the recommendations will be placed in the public domain for feedback.
ICAI has also introduced the New Scheme of Education and Training in 2023. Areas such as AI, data analytics, ESG, sustainability and forensic auditing are currently not formally integrated as standalone components of the CA curriculum, although the institute has introduced separate training programmes in several of these areas.
AURA programme
Among these initiatives is the Artificial Intelligence Understanding for Rising Achievers (AURA) programme for CA students.
ICAI is preparing to launch AURA 2.0, an advanced-level programme for students who have completed AURA 1.0. The programme will focus on practical applications of AI in finance, audit and taxation. “The course will proactively integrate tech skills, automation and data tools into CA training,” Kumar said.
AI training for CAs
While AI is changing the nature of several professions, ICAI officials said demand for chartered accountants remains strong. In the institute’s recently concluded placement process, nearly 8,000 vacancies were on offer, while 5,834 candidates appeared for the placement process, a senior official said.
For its members, ICAI has also introduced the AI Certificate Course for Chartered Accountants (AICA). The Level 1 focuses on foundational AI concepts and tools through a three-day programme. The Institute has conducted more than 850 batches, training over 45,000 members.
Level 2 focuses on advanced applications and practical use cases through a five-day blended programme. ICAI has organised over 80 batches, training over 1,500 members. The 100th batch is scheduled to be held in Pune in October 2026.
ICAI is also upgrading its Digital Information Systems Assurance (DISA) 3.0 programme to DISA 4.0, with the new version expected in October.
Training government agencies
Beyond AI and technology, ICAI has expanded its professional training offerings to include a diploma in forensic and investigation and certificate programmes in areas such as data protection and cybersecurity.
The institute provides training to government and regulatory agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), on financial fraud and forensic investigation.
Global ties
Under the proposed framework, the curriculum would mirror the Indian CA course, with local adaptations mainly for taxation and law papers, based on the respective country’s statutes and regulatory requirements.
A senior ICAI member said the institute is working with the Mauritius Institute of Professional Accountants (MIPA) to tailor the CA curriculum to Mauritius’ regulatory and professional requirements.
Similar tie-ups are being explored with Nepal and countries across Africa.