AI-Ready Accountants: Minister Urges Tech-Driven Transformation at ICAB Convocation

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has called on newly qualified Chartered Accountants (CAs) to prepare themselves to adapt to rapid technological changes and address the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI). He made the remarks as the chief guest at the 22nd convocation ceremony of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB), held on Saturday morning, April 11, at the InterContinental Hotel in the capital. Members of the ICAB Council, senior officials, and family members of the graduates were present at the event.

Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan said, “We are now living in the internet era, where modern corporate systems are almost entirely technology-driven. With the advancement of artificial intelligence and data analytics, a revolutionary transformation is taking place in the accounting profession. You must move forward by embracing this challenge with confidence.” He added that in today’s world, Chartered Accountants are not merely record-keepers but also play a crucial role as strategic advisors to organizations.

He further stated, “Limiting yourselves only to the academic knowledge acquered from the institute will not ensure the full development of your potential. You must remain constantly aware and vigilant about the new realities created by the integration of technology.”

Distinguished intellectual Professor Dr. Salimullah Khan attended the event as the convocation speaker. He described Chartered Accountants as an integral part of modern society and capitalism, referring to them as “organic intellectuals.” He said that accounting is not merely the science of balancing numbers, but a key pillar of modern democratic civilization and economic systems. He advised the new Chartered Accountants to contribute intellectually to both economic and social systems.

Speaking as a special guest, Financial Reporting Council (FRC) Chairman Dr. Md. Sajjad Hossain Bhuiya emphasized the importance of transparent accounting systems for national development. ICAB President N K A Mobin FCA urged the new professionals to uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity.

At this year’s convocation, formal certificates were awarded to candidates who passed the CA examinations from November–December 2022 to November–December 2025. ICAB Council members, senior officials, and family members of the graduates were present at the ceremony.

DBTech/IHI/MUIM/OR