The virtual inauguration of ICMA Digital Academy, the digital skills development division of the Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMAP), took place on Friday, 4 August 2023. This initiative is in collaboration with The FinTech Group (TFG), based in London. ICMA Digital Academy, registered in the UK, aims to equip Pakistan with globally sought-after digital skills, creating a job-ready workforce for the future.
Distinguished panellists from prominent institutions in Pakistan with an interest in advancing digital and emerging technology skills participated in the live webinar. Among them were representatives from P@SHA (Pakistan IT Industry Association), the Pakistan Stock Exchange, the National Institute of Banking & Finance, the Pakistan Freelancers Association, the Pakistan Software Export Board, leading Big Four accounting firms, and the higher education sector. The event was graced by the leadership teams of ICMA and TFG, as well as international firms specialising in EdTech, comprehensive digital enrolment platforms, and micro-internships for learners.
In a video message, His Excellency President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi, emphasised the academy’s significance in facilitating Pakistan’s youth to offer their services globally. He highlighted the eagerness of young adults to acquire new technologies and engage with a worldwide customer base professionally.
President Alvi underscored the ongoing strategic transformation in the nature of future jobs and how services will be rendered. He noted the growing acceptance of remote work and its potential for talented Pakistani youth to engage with clients worldwide virtually, transcending geographical constraints. He emphasised that this trend eliminates the need for visas or immigration to offer global services.
Highlighting the pace of global change, President Alvi applauded ICMA for the timely launch of ICMA Digital Academy, encouraging the country to adapt swiftly to global shifts. He accentuated the importance of linking Pakistan’s youthful demographic with the world intellectually, foreseeing it as a significant opportunity for the nation.
He further expressed, “ICMA’s launch of the Digital Academy aligns with the emerging demands of tomorrow’s world. Accountants will expand their influence beyond national borders to cater to global users, boosting digital exports and economic growth.”
Mr. Shahzad Malik, ICMA President, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the academy’s mission to empower ICMA members and university students with globally competitive digital skills. He highlighted the potential for digital exports and the Academy’s role in enhancing digital competencies across both corporate and public sectors as part of Pakistan’s digital transformation.
The ICMA Digital Academy plans to launch its digital skills development programmes for learners in early October 2023.
