The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU) celebrated its 15th Graduation Ceremony on March 6, 2025, at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, honouring 404 graduates from various qualifications alongside industry leaders and stakeholders.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Grace B. Muliisa, the Managing Director and CEO of Ecobank Uganda, emphasised the evolving role of accountants in shaping businesses and economies beyond just number-crunching.
“The best accountants are not just number crunchers; they are strategists and storytellers. Your ability to turn data into meaningful insights is what makes you invaluable,” Muliisa told the CPA, CTA, and ATD graduands.
She further highlighted the increasing role of technology in accountancy, stating, “Technology is not replacing accountants; it is empowering them. Those who leverage AI, automation, and digital tools will lead the future of finance. Adapt or be left behind.”
She urged the graduates to uphold ethics and resilience in their careers, advising, “Your attitude determines your altitude in this profession. Technical skills open doors, but resilience, adaptability, and curiosity will keep you at the top.”
Muliisa also stressed the broader responsibility of accountants in society, noting that “Accountants must be leaders of social change. We don’t just balance books; we shape economies, drive innovation, and uphold business ethics. Lead with impact!”
Continuous Professional Growth
CPA Derick Nkajja, the CEO of ICPAU, encouraged graduates to take the next step in their professional journey by registering as full members of ICPAU to earn the prestigious CPA designation.
“Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is not just a title; it’s a mark of excellence, credibility, and professional growth,” Nkajja said.
Prof. Laura Orobia, Chairperson of the Public Accountants Examinations Board (PAEB), congratulated the graduates from various programmes, including the Accounting Technicians Diploma (ATD), Certified Tax Advisor (CTA), Certified Public Accountants of Uganda [CPA(U)], and the masterclass for holders of Foreign Accountancy Qualifications (FAQ).
She applauded their dedication and resilience, emphasising the opportunities ahead.
The PAEB chair acknowledged recent developments in professional accountancy education, particularly the Uganda Accountancy Qualifications Framework (UAQF), which was approved in 2023. The framework aligns professional accountancy with the Higher Education Qualifications Framework for Uganda, ensuring greater recognition and career mobility.
Prof. Orobia noted that continuing ATD students have until December 2025 to complete their examinations under PAEB, after which the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) will take over.
This year’s ceremony saw an impressive number of graduates: 32 from the Accounting Technicians Diploma (ATD), 19 Certified Tax Advisors (CTA), 272 Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (CPA-U), and 81 from the FAQ masterclass.
Young Accountant of the Year Inspires Graduates
CPA Joseph Osaka, the Young Accountant of the Year 2024, delivered an inspirational message, reminding graduates that success is built on trust, ethics, and continuous learning.
“What you do today shapes your future. Own your journey! Accounting is more than numbers; it’s a responsibility,” he emphasised.
Osaka urged graduates to embrace professionalism and integrity, stating, “The choices you make today will define the accountant you become. Keep striving for excellence!”
He encouraged them to challenge themselves and make an impact in the industry, noting that “Great accountants don’t just track numbers—they create value. Stay committed, uphold high standards, and never stop learning.”
Technology and Regulation Shaping the Future of Accountancy
CPA Ronald Mutumba emphasised the transformative role of technology in accountancy. “AI, automation, and data analytics are changing the field, but ethical leadership and continuous learning will always be essential,” he noted.
He shared key updates including the Uganda Accountancy Qualifications Framework (UAQF) which prioritises CPAs in job selections and as a pathway to master’s degrees, a new requirement for businesses with annual turnovers of UGX 500 million or more to have their financial statements prepared by an ICPAU-registered CPA, the approval of the 2024 Accountants Regulations to enhance governance and professional standards, and the organisation of a second and final ICPAU FAQ Masterclass.
As the graduates celebrated their achievements, the ceremony underscored the growing importance of professional accountants in shaping Uganda’s financial landscape. Dressed in excellence, pride, and determination, they now step into a future filled with opportunities, growth, and impact.
