Embracing Change: Insights from the Webinar on Digital Accounting

In an era defined by rapid transformation, the role of accountants is evolving significantly. The COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on the global economy, prompting a reevaluation of many professional roles, including that of the accountant. To address these changes and explore the evolving landscape of accounting, the Department of Commerce at St. Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangalore, in collaboration with ISDC and ACCA, organized an insightful webinar titled "The Digital Accountant: Digital & Career Skills in a Transformed World."

The webinar took place on June 26, 2020, at 2:00 PM and was conducted via the Microsoft Teams platform, with approximately 400 participants from Mangalore and Bangalore joining the session. The event was designed for both students and staff from various colleges, providing a comprehensive overview of the new opportunities and challenges in the accounting profession.

Mr. Gaurav Kapur, Head of Policy at ACCA India, was the session's distinguished speaker. With over 15 years of experience in knowledge-based interventions and public policy, Mr. Kapur's expertise spans multiple industries, including investment management, corporate strategy, commercial planning, and treasury operations. He is a qualified accountant, an MBA from the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) – where he was honored with the prestigious Ratan Tata Scholarship for academic excellence – and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

The webinar began with an introduction and welcome by Ms. Pooja, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of ACCA, who set the stage for the discussion. Dr. Dennes Fernandes, Director of the Arrupe Block, also addressed the participants, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the changing professional environment.

During his address, Mr. Kapur highlighted the current issues impacting the accounting profession and discussed the changing role of accountants in the digital age. He shared valuable insights into career opportunities within the field and offered practical tips for preparing for the new work culture. The session included a 15-minute segment dedicated to addressing participants' queries, allowing for an interactive and engaging discussion.

The webinar concluded with a vote of thanks at 3:00 PM, wrapping up a session filled with thought-provoking insights and practical advice. As the world continues to navigate through change, the webinar underscored the importance of embracing digital transformation and preparing for a future where accountants will play an even more pivotal role.

Through such initiatives, the Department of Commerce at St. Aloysius College, in collaboration with ISDC and ACCA, continues to equip students and professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.