Kasneb develops new course to boost fight against graft

Kasneb CEO Nicholas Letting addresses a past event. [File, Standard]

The Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board (Kasneb) has developed a new course that will help accountants sharpen their skills in the fight against corruption.

In a statement on Wednesday, Kasneb noted the worrying trend of growing corruption cases in the country, especially white-collar fraud that is mostly facilitated through cyber-crime.

Already, two cohorts of the Certified Forensic Fraud Examiners (CFFE) have graduated, joining entities in the public and private sectors in unearthing fraud-related cases.

"These professionals are equipped with skills in forensic accounting, investigation, cybercrime analysis and ethical leadership, all being key tools in curbing financial malpractice," said Kasneb CEO Nicholas Letting.

Kasneb has mooted the courses as it celebrates its 56th anniversary.

"In producing these professionals, we are continuously evolving in meeting the demands of a rapidly shifting global economy," Kasneb said.

"This year's anniversary marks a series of transformative milestones for the organisation, highlighting its pivotal role in driving professional development in Kenya and the region."

The graduations not only marked individual achievement but symbolised Kenya's growing capacity to produce home-grown forensic talent capable of protecting both public and private sector institutions.

Kasneb also hosted the International Conference for Professionals (KICP), with delegates across the world participating and giving their views on the changing accounting landscape globally.

The conference, themed "Unleashing Potential: Shaping the Future of International Professionals in the Blue Space," brought together professionals, educators, policymakers, and students to discuss the future of work, technological disruption, and ethical leadership in a globalised world.

"Held against the backdrop of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, KICP created a platform for collaboration and policy dialogue around artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital finance, and sustainability-showcasing Kasneb vision to position Kenyan professionals as global citizens equipped for tomorrow's challenges," the CEO said.

As the job market evolves toward skills-based hiring, Kasneb said it is pioneering micro-credentials; short, focused certifications that allow learners to quickly acquire job-relevant skills such as taxation, artificial intelligence and financial modelling. These digital qualifications are designed to complement traditional learning and foster continuous professional development.

"Kasneb is also actively advancing Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) frameworks to recognize the skills and knowledge that professionals have acquired outside the formal education system. RPL ensures inclusivity, opening doors for skilled but uncertified individuals to gain recognition and grow their careers," said Prof Letting.