The Hindu Business Line : ICAI to help Bengal connect university syllabi with IT

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), which is currently rolling out a major technology initiative, has proposed to assist the West Bengal Government's efforts to connect university syllabi with IT.

ICAI plans to work closely with the concerned departments of the State Government in this regard. In addition, it intends to extend support to the universities in the State. These universities produce a large number of graduates every year.

The Institute's position comes as a response to the view expressed on Friday by Mr Debesh Das, the State IT Minister, who underlined the significance of closer ties between professional accountants and academia. He also referred to the potential that has been lately evident in the State on the IT/ITES front.

Students, no matter which discipline they belong to, cannot progress much if they do not have adequate IT training, the Minister said, adding that universities in West Bengal have already started offering technology and related courses. The facilities now need to be upgraded to meet higher standards, it is felt.

The State authorities would like organisations like ICAI to develop courses and fine-tune syllabi so that students become more IT-savvy, Mr Das indicated while addressing a seminar, titled `e-enabling CAs for the digital era,' organised by ICAI. There is a need for upgrading research initiatives in the State with the help of modern technology, he felt.

Mr Subodh Agarwal, Chairman of ICAI's Eastern India Regional Council, said the Institute has lately witnessed a significant increase in the demand for qualified accountants. Only 7,000-8,000 students or so make it to the top every year and this number is not adequate for meeting the rising demand for skilled personnel.

The Institute will help educational bodies in the State Government to modify their courses so that students stay tune with the requirements of business and industry, Mr Agarwal suggested.

More Stories on : Education | IT Training | Accountancy | West Bengal

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