The CEO of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG) has emphasized the importance of professionalism in the accounting industry to maintain investor confidence in the economy.
Kwasi Agyemang highlighted the critical role accountants play as the gatekeepers of public funds and investors’ money. He stressed the need for transparency in recording, keeping, and reporting transactions to protect investors’ interests.
Speaking at a professional networking event for the ICAG Professional Diploma Programme, Agyemang urged accountants to upgrade their skills to meet new standards and trends in the industry. The programme included intensive training in areas such as IT Audit, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), Advance Business Analytics, IFRS, and IPSAS.
Akua Amoah-Boateng, Partner at Resource Alliance, also emphasized the significance of ESG standards in promoting a healthy environment and supporting organizational members. ESG standards focus on how a company’s operations impact the environment, the treatment of employees, and corporate governance practices.
Amoah-Boateng highlighted the risks associated with ESG non-compliance and the need for companies to incorporate actions to mitigate these risks into their daily operations. She emphasized the role of her firm in supervising clients to ensure compliance with ESG standards and avoid penalties.
The event served as a platform for accountants and professionals to deepen their knowledge and competencies in specialized areas, ensuring they can effectively contribute to the financial stability and growth of the economy. By upholding professionalism and staying abreast of industry standards, accountants can attract more investors to the country and secure their investments.
As the accounting profession continues to evolve, it is essential for professionals to continuously enhance their skills and adapt to new trends to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability in financial transactions. By doing so, they can play a crucial role in safeguarding investors’ interests and promoting a thriving economic environment.