ICAZ Winter School begins

THE Institute of Chartered Accountants of Zimbabwe (ICAZ) Winter School has commenced in Victoria Falls, amid calls for members to embrace digital technology and continuous skill improvement.

The event, which is running under the theme: “The Art of Relevance — Re-imagining Your Value Proposition” is set against the backdrop of rapid technological advancements and the need for professionals to stay relevant and contribute effectively to national development.

The conference will end on Sunday.

Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Kudakwashe Mnangagwa will officiate on Saturday.

Accountants from both public and private sectors are attending the Winter School.

In his welcome remarks, ICAZ c said the event is more than just a tradition but a vital opportunity for accountants to come together, share experiences, and collectively envision the future.

“It is crucial for us to continually reassess and redefine our roles as chartered accountants. The art of staying relevant is not just about adapting to change, it is about anticipating, embracing and living it. I urge you to reflect on what relevance means to you,” she said.

“The concept of reimagining your value proposition is a call to action to add value to our organisations and clients. The digital revolution has brought about anticipated change in the way we do business and artificial intelligence and big data are transforming.”

Ms Chigunduru said chartered accountants should harness modern technologies.

“We must cultivate the mindset of continuously learning, always ready to acquire new skills and adapt so that we help the society on how to navigate financial complexes,” she said.

Ms Chigunduru said by positioning themselves as trusted advisors, chartered accountants can significantly enhance value in society.

She urged members to uphold the highest standards of ethical behaviour and play a pivotal role in addressing pressing issues in society.

ICAZ Matabeleland Council vice chairperson, Mr Bokani Dube reiterated the need for chartered accountants to add value to their profession.

Topics lined up for discussion include rethinking value proposition optimisation as well as the talk on the art of relevance and re-imagining value proposition.

With climate change impact cutting across economic sectors, there will be a presentation on climate change which poses the biggest risks and opportunities to business.

ICAZ has embraced digital technology and there will be a talk on integrating AI and accounting to drive economic empowerment and innovation.

There will also be a focus on the future of the profession in light of technological development and the need to develop critical 21st-century skills to remain relevant.

Other presentations will be on Zimbabwe’s economic and monetary policy and estate planning and family trusts.

ICAZ is the country’s largest body of professional accountants. For over a decade, the institute has been annually donating A-level accounting textbooks in the country through the relevant provincial education offices. — @ncubeleon