To address the significant demand gap of 92,000 chartered accountants in Ghana, the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG) has launched a sensitisation campaign targeting senior high school students in the Upper West Region. The initiative is designed to raise awareness among students about the vast opportunities in the accounting profession and encourage them to consider pursuing a career as chartered accountants.
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Educating the Next Generation of Accountants
The campaign began with a visit to Wa Senior High School, where Dr. Paul Saayir, a member of ICAG and a Business Lecturer at the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, addressed business students. Dr. Saayir worked to dispel the myth that accounting limits job opportunities, emphasising the wide-ranging career paths that can stem from a qualification in accountancy.
The ICAG’s Upper West District Society also visited Wa Islamic Senior High School in Busa, continuing the conversation about the benefits of pursuing a career in accounting. The campaign aims to inform students that the demand for chartered accountants in Ghana significantly exceeds the current supply, with only 8,000 accountants currently in the country. In contrast, the demand stands at approximately 100,000.
A Lucrative and Diverse Career Path
Dr. Saayir outlined the enormous potential in the accounting profession, particularly within the public sector. He highlighted the key roles that people with business backgrounds hold in Ghana, such as the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, the Auditor-General, and the Controller and Accountant-General. He also mentioned the Minister of Finance, emphasising that business and accounting professionals are essential in both the government and corporate sectors.
“Business people are employed everywhere,” Dr. Saayir noted, encouraging students not to be deterred by misconceptions that studying Business limits their future career opportunities. He assured students that they are in the right field to achieve success in numerous professions, including becoming business leaders, financial advisors, accountants, and bankers.
Breaking Down Misconceptions About Business Education
Dr. Saayir also addressed concerns about the perceived limitations of studying Business at the senior high school level. Some students worry that a business-focused education would prevent them from being admitted to Nursing or Teacher Training Colleges. Dr. Saayir debunked these myths, explaining that a business education opens doors to various educational and career opportunities, not just in accounting but also in other fields.
Global Recognition of the Chartered Accountant Qualification
Dr. Abraham Dakurah, Supervising Manager of Wa Community Credit Union (WACCU) and another member of ICAG, highlighted the global relevance of the ICAG qualification. He emphasised that ICAG is part of an international accountancy organisation, indicating that the qualification is recognised and valued worldwide. Chartered accountants with the ICAG certification can practice anywhere and are highly sought after in the business world.
“Every business entity requires an accountant to manage its finances,” Dr. Dakurah emphasised, urging students to stay focused, disciplined, and determined in their studies. He encouraged students to pursue a career in accounting with the understanding that it offers both local and international career prospects.
Supporting the Next Generation of Chartered Accountants
The Upper West District Society also announced a sponsorship package for any student who earns a single-digit aggregate in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This initiative aims to motivate students to excel in their exams and take the necessary steps toward becoming chartered accountants.
Additionally, ICAG members in the Upper West Region have pledged to provide support to students preparing for the exams, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to succeed. As part of the campaign, exercise books were also donated to students as a gesture of encouragement.
Conclusion: Building a Stronger Future with Chartered Accountants
The ICAG’s campaign in the Upper West Region is a vital step toward addressing the shortage of chartered accountants in Ghana. By educating senior high school students about the diverse opportunities in the accounting profession, ICAG is helping to shape the next generation of financial leaders. With the support of ICAG members, students are being empowered to pursue their aspirations and contribute to strengthening Ghana’s financial sector.
