KASNEB revises professional courses to address emerging skills gaps

The Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board (KASNEB) has revised its professional examination syllabuses to incorporate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), and improve graduates' employability.

The revised syllabuses were launched during the 2nd KASNEB International Conference for Professionals (KICP) Gala Dinner in Nairobi on Thursday.

KASNEB Chief Executive Officer Prof. Nicholas Letting said the changes aim to align professional training with industry needs and international standards.

The review covers courses including Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Secretaries, Certified Investment and Financial Analyst (CIFA) and Certified Credit Professionals.

Prof. Letting said the new curriculum will equip professionals with skills in digital accounting, forensic fraud examination, governance, ethics and electronic record management.

“We want our accountants to move from manual processes to digital systems and use technology to prepare financial statements more efficiently,” he said.

The board has also incorporated competency-based training and occupational standards to ensure graduates acquire practical skills required in the workplace.

Prof. Leting said the syllabus was benchmarked against professional qualifications in more than 25 countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, India, the United States, Canada and Australia.

The first examinations under the revised curriculum are scheduled for April 2027, with transition arrangements being finalised for students under the current syllabus.

KASNEB also plans to introduce biometric identification and digital examination monitoring to curb impersonation and cheating.

The board currently examines about 30,000 candidates per sitting and has qualified more than 60,000 professionals. It targets to produce an additional 20,000 professionals over the next five years.

KASNEB Board Chairperson, Dr. Percy Opio, said the review, conducted every five years, was aimed at ensuring graduates meet employers' expectations.

He said the revised curriculum also introduces micro-credentials and strengthens professional ethics to improve the marketability of graduates.