KASNEB Launches New Syllabus, Here Are the Changes Introduced

KASNEB has marked yet another milestone by launching a novel syllabus that introduces new qualifications required to meet the emerging market demands.

In an event dotted by partner institutions, stakeholders, and the parties engaged in the syllabus review, the accountant’s body was lauded for completing the review that was undertaken against the backdrop of major challenges, the most prominent of which was the breakout of the Covid-19 pandemic in Kenya.

“I note with satisfaction that the pandemic did not dampen the commitment by KASNEB to deliver the revised syllabuses, as the Board adopted technology to engage with stakeholders and ensure the exercise was completed on schedule,” commented Dr. Julius M. Muia, The Principal Secretary of the National Treasury.

The latest syllabus review comes at an opportune time when Kenya is adopting a competence-based education and training system. This new system of education focuses more on skills and competencies rather than knowledge.

Therefore, it is commendable that Kasneb has taken the lead in ensuring that its graduates are ready for the market under the new dispensation.

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Among the changes incorporated in the new syllabus include an emphasis on digital literacy through a focus on emerging technologies. It also introduces practical papers on data analytics, which prepares the candidate for the real-life scenario where big data and analytics are the new norms.

KASNEB also made room for the adoption of new modes of assessment including workshops to enable candidates to interact with industry players, develop critical soft skills and appreciate emerging technologies.

And by partnering with other agencies through facilitating forums for students to appreciate ethics and good values; and with professional institutes to create student membership categories in the professional institutes, the new syllabus will go a long way in facilitating mentorship opportunities and internships.

As part of the major review process, KASNEB has also introduced new qualifications to address current gaps in the market. This followed wide consultations with a cross-section of stakeholders both in the Public and Private sectors.

The new products encompass Certified Forensic Fraud Examiner (post-professional specialization course), short, skilled-based courses in entrepreneurship and innovation and ICT, Diploma programs in ICT, and revamped Certified Information Systems Solutions Expert (CISSE).

“KASNEB is working closely with ICPAK and other partners to develop a specialization qualification in public sector financial management. This will be a welcome development to address capacity requirements in the area of public financial accounting and financial management,” said Dr. Muia.

Furthermore, the process involved a review of various policies to address students’ needs and ensure a smooth registration and qualification process. This was done in consultation with the regulatory bodies in the education sector, such as the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) and the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA).

Dr. Muia noted that the success of the new syllabus will require the support and cooperation from all players including employers, professional bodies, the Government, regulatory agencies, training institutions including universities among others.

He called upon employers to actively collaborate with KASNEB in the provision of internship opportunities to students and the government to ensure graduates are considered in the internship program facilitated by the Public Service Commission.

In the new syllabus, KASNEB has made a paradigm shift from paper-based examinations to computer-based examinations. The move signals the body’s endeavor to enhance customer experience and service delivery. The first digital-based examinations will be rolled out in December 2021 starting with certificate examinations. It will then be extended to cover other examinations.