- KPMG and ACCA launch groundbreaking ESG programme in Singapore.
- The programme addresses the urgent need for ESG skills in accountancy.
- It offers both foundational and advanced tracks for different career levels.
A new ESG programme in Singapore aims to reshape the accountancy profession for a sustainable future.
Key Term Simplified
- ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance, which are factors used to measure how sustainable and ethical a company is.
New ESG Skills Programme
On 25 October 2024, KPMG in Singapore and ACCA launched a new ESG programme.
This programme aims to give accountants and non-accountants the ESG knowledge they need for the future.
The programme comes after a report in May 2024 said accountants need more ESG skills.
This report was from the Accountancy Workforce Review Committee (AWRC).
Alex Koh from KPMG in Singapore said, “To redesign the accountancy workforce, we must attract new talent by prioritising adaptability, collaboration and innovation.”
The programme has two main parts:
- A free basic ESG course for new graduates and working adults
- An advanced course for senior finance leaders
Why This Programme Matters
The demand for ESG skills in Singapore is growing.
In 2024, 47% of employers needed sustainability skills.
This is up from 38% before.
KPMG’s research shows that 56% of finance jobs will need ESG upskilling.
This affects over 50,000 professionals.
Daniel Leung from ACCA Singapore said, “Sustainability is a top priority for businesses, governments, and the public sector. Finance professionals play a crucial role in driving and implementing sustainable practices across a wide range of organisations.”
This programme is similar to other sustainability initiatives in Singapore, showing a growing trend in green business practices.
What The Programme Covers
| Track | Topics | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|
| Foundational | Climate risk, ESG reporting, measurements | New graduates, working adults |
| Advanced | Strategic planning, decision-making | Senior finance leaders |
After finishing the programme, people can get more certificates.
These include the Certificate in Sustainability of Finance (CertSF) and the Professional Diploma in Sustainability (ProDipSust).
Impact on the Accountancy Profession
This programme is improving on how accountants work.
It’s helping them do more than just handle finance.
Alex Koh said, “Our collaboration with ACCA to introduce the ESG future skills programme is more than just providing access— it is about building on qualities and fundamentals that accountants already possess.”
From 2025, companies in Singapore will need to report more about climate issues.
This means accountants need to know about sustainability rules.
Opportunities
This change also brings new job opportunities.
Accountants with ESG skills could become:
- Climate and impact reporting accountants
- Chief Sustainability Officers
- Chief Financial Officers
The programme is expected to make participants more employable.
It could also lead to a more sustainable business environment in Singapore.
Do you think all accountants should be required to learn ESG skills for their job?
