ACCA revamps training for digital and sustainable era

The move follows extensive consultation with ACCA members, employers, learning providers, and representatives from Generation Z around the world. The updated framework reflects a broader redefinition of the accountancy profession, positioning future accountants as not only financial stewards but also as strategic enablers of innovation, social impact, and long-term value creation. The new qualification structure is expected to be rolled out globally from mid-2027.

Helen Brand, chief executive of ACCA, emphasised that the demands placed on accountants are evolving rapidly. “Accountancy is being redefined. Accountants are drivers of sustainable business, promoters of social value, and enablers of new technologies. They are sharpening their financial and ethical skills for a changed world of ever-shifting opportunities and challenges. They innovate with new business models and fresh thinking about what success looks like. They focus on people, planet, and prosperity to create value for all,” she said.

To meet these new expectations, the redesigned ACCA Qualification will introduce a fully integrated approach to learning and assessment. The structure across its three levels will be unified by guided learning journeys powered by AI, with digital mentoring available throughout.

A notable change is the introduction of employability modules at each level, providing practical simulations of real-world challenges across areas such as technology, sustainability, ethics, and business management. These additions are designed to bridge academic theory with workplace reality, equipping students with skills that match employer expectations in a fast-evolving labour market.

The programme will harness AI to personalise learning and support the next generation of accountants in developing both technical and professional skills. Photo: ACCA Vietnam

In addition to its strengthened core, the qualification will offer a new elective in data science at the strategic professional level, recognising the central role that data literacy now plays in decision-making and business analysis. Technology, sustainability, and ethics, already embedded in the current curriculum, will become even more deeply interwoven into every element of the programme, further reinforcing ACCA’s longstanding emphasis on responsible business and forward-looking finance.

ACCA will also enhance the recognition of progress within the qualification, enabling students to showcase their development at various milestones through new designations and awards. These will provide clearer signposts for employers and support student motivation throughout the qualification journey.

To Quoc Hung, ACCA Vietnam country manager, welcomed the changes and emphasised their relevance to the domestic market. “The ACCA Qualification has always been the gold standard, globally recognised and highly valued by employers in Vietnam. It will remain as rigorous, relevant, and future-focused as ever, with an even sharper focus on employability,” he said. “The redesigned qualification comes together as a unified experience at each of its three levels with learning guidance and support, assessments, employability support, and help to develop skills. Students will benefit from tailored learning journeys supported by AI technology and a digital mentor.”

In Vietnam, where the demand for internationally certified professionals continues to rise, the redesigned ACCA framework is expected to contribute to building a more competitive and future-ready workforce. As businesses increasingly prioritise sustainable practices and digital transformation, the alignment of qualifications with global trends will be key to maintaining professional relevance and economic competitiveness.

To Quoc Hung, country manager at ACCA Vietnam. Photo: ACCA Vietnam

Current students will not be disadvantaged by the transition. ACCA has confirmed that all existing achievements will be fully recognised, and the cost and time required to complete the qualification will remain unaffected. Furthermore, students will continue to have the opportunity to obtain a globally respected academic degree alongside their ACCA studies through the updated BSc (Hons) in professional accountancy offered in collaboration with the University of London.

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