ISCA Launches Global Programme to Nurture Accountancy Talent and Create a Diverse and Inclusive Accountancy Talent Pool

• The first of its kind for Singapore’s professional services sector, the ISCA Global Talent Programme aims to position Singapore as an accountancy hub and a choice location for accountancy professionals.
• The programme is open to undergraduates of all disciplines and from around the world.

30 June 2023 – The national accountancy body, the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), has launched the ISCA Global Talent Programme, the first of its kind for Singapore’s professional services sector. The programme aims to develop the accountancy talent pipeline and position Singapore as an accountancy hub and a choice location for accountancy professionals. It also aims to correct the misperception among youths that accountancy is about crunching numbers and may be less exciting than other emerging fields.

The ISCA Global Talent Programme will provide an immersive experience for undergraduates of all disciplines and from all around the world to gain new perspectives on Singapore and the abundant career opportunities within Singapore’s accountancy sector. ISCA will support the students’ expenses on this week-long programme with a $1 million allocated fund.  

The programme will provide the students with opportunities to experience Singapore’s dynamic business environment, develop a global perspective and build their leadership, communication and project management skills.

The students will gain an understanding of opportunities in the accountancy sector, especially the high-growth areas in Singapore’s vibrant business ecosystem. During the programme, they will engage and network with industry stakeholders and experienced professionals through visits to companies, accounting firms and government agencies. They will also learn technical skills from their mentors and peers as they tackle problem statements concerning the accountancy sector.

ISCA President Mr Teo Ser Luck said, “The ISCA Global Talent Programme provides a unique opportunity and transformative experience for the undergraduates to be exposed to various facets of the accountancy profession while engaging in cross-cultural exchanges, knowledge sharing and networking. With this programme, ISCA aims to contribute to a diverse and inclusive talent pool and the development of Singapore as an accountancy and business hub.”

Mr Arthur Lang, Group Chief Financial Officer, Singtel, said, “Singtel is delighted to be part of ISCA’s inaugural Global Talent Programme to nurture aspiring accountants. Today’s finance function has swiftly transitioned from a traditionally custodial, statutory and regulatory nature to one that is forward-looking and adaptable to industry-specific and macroeconomic challenges and nuances. The finance department is the champion for enterprise value creation, and this requires a multi-disciplinary approach with varied skills such as strategic thinking, data analytics, corporate finance and a deep understanding of capital markets and stakeholder management. Given our sizeable regional footprint, Singtel is firmly committed to developing ‘regional-ready’ professionals who can easily assimilate in different environments which is a critical attribute in this connected world.”

Upon completion of the ISCA Global Talent Programme, the students will stay connected with ISCA as the programme’s alumni. ISCA will continue to engage them as ambassadors of the programme for knowledge sharing, mentorship and guidance for future participants. This will contribute to the programme’s sustainability and growth over time.

To apply for the Global Talent Programme, students must provide a written submission. Shortlisted students will undergo an interview process. Successful candidates will be inducted into the programme as Global Talent Trainees. International trainees will join their counterparts in Singapore and the trainees will live, learn, and work together.

Up to 300 candidates will be selected for the programme over the next three to five years. The programme is free for participants, and all related costs are borne by ISCA.

More details on the ISCA Global Talent Programme can be found here.

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For more information, contact:
Betsy Tan
Communications Lead
Tel: 9641 6920
Email: betsy.tan@isca.org.sg

About the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore. ISCA’s vision is to be a world-class accountancy body of trusted professionals, contributing towards an innovative and sustainable economy. There are over 33,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world.

Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.

ISCA is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.

ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.

For more information, visit www.isca.org.sg.