The Accountant-General’s Department (AGD) and the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for another three years to bolster finance capabilities within Singapore’s public service. This collaboration focuses on professional development in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability assurance, and financial governance.
The renewed MOU comes amid global economic shifts and technological advancements that are reshaping organisational operations. AGD and ISCA will curate training programmes aligned with the Public Sector Finance and Internal Audit Competency Frameworks, fostering professional exchanges within the accountancy community. Esther Wee, Accountant-General and Chief of Government Finance, emphasised the importance of maintaining public trust through enhanced professional judgement and emerging capabilities.
A key component of the partnership is the development of AI skills among approximately 4,000 public finance and internal audit officers. The AI Fluency Programme, already enrolling over 400 officers, will be expanded across the public service. This initiative aims to establish a foundational understanding of AI, ensuring officers can effectively integrate technology whilst upholding financial governance standards.
Additionally, the partnership seeks to expand career pathways within the public sector. AGD’s Accredited Training Organisation network, which includes 27 agencies, will provide practical experience and mentorship opportunities. The Chartered Accountant of Singapore pathway offers public sector officers access to a global professional community, enhancing their career prospects.
Lee Boon Teck, President of ISCA, noted that whilst AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace the professional judgement and ethical responsibility essential to the finance profession. The partnership aims to blend AI capabilities with the robust foundation of the CA Singapore qualification, enabling officers to make informed decisions that benefit organisations.
