CPA qualification - a must for finance and accounting roles at URA

According to Kisaka, accountants need to have good interpersonal skills, as they work in teams and interact with various stakeholders and clients, both locally and internationally. She said that these skills help to negotiate, collaborate and create a healthy working environment. She also mentioned that accountants need to be adaptable, resilient and ethical, as they face different challenges and opportunities in their work.

Kisaka explained that URA looks for candidates who have a bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance, or who have completed the Certified Public Accountants (CPA) programme and qualified as accountants. She added that the CPA(U) qualification is an added advantage for leadership positions in the finance division, and that all employees are encouraged to pursue it.

Finally, Kisaka offered some words of wisdom for aspiring accountants. She advised them to be passionate about their profession, to keep learning and updating their knowledge and skills, and to network with other professionals in the field. She also urged them to join professional bodies such as the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU), which provide support, guidance and opportunities for accountants.

This article extract was originally published in the CPA Connect Magazine, a monthly publication for certified public accountants and accounting professionals. The magazine covers topics such as industry trends, best practices, career development, and ethics.

The article extract appeared in the December 2023 issue, number 11.