CA Information Technology Training & Soft Skills Course
CA Information Technology Training & Soft Skills Course
The Information Technology Training (ITT) and Soft Skills Course are essential components of the CA curriculum offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). These courses are designed to enhance the technical and interpersonal skills required for a successful career in Chartered Accountancy.
1. Information Technology Training (ITT)
The Information Technology Training (ITT) program aims to equip CA students with essential IT and digital skills necessary for modern-day accounting and auditing practices. Given the increasing use of technology in finance, this training ensures that CA professionals are proficient with relevant software and tools. ITT is offered at two levels in the CA journey:
a. Orientation Level (Basic ITT for CA Foundation/Intermediate)
Duration: 100 hours
Timing: Must be completed after registering for the CA Foundation or Intermediate level and before starting articleship.
Content:
Basic computer skills and MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Introduction to accounting software (Tally, ERP, etc.)
Fundamentals of information systems and cybersecurity
Data management and database concepts
Internet applications and cloud computing basics
b. Advanced ITT (AICITSS for CA Final)
Duration: 100 hours (minimum of two weeks, full-time)
Timing: Must be completed after CA Intermediate and before appearing for the CA Final Examination.
Content:
Advanced Excel functions and macros for financial analysis
Data analytics and data visualization tools
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software training
Auditing in a computerized environment, including CAAT (Computer-Aided Audit Tools)
Cybersecurity, information system controls, and IT compliance
Practical exercises in auditing and financial reporting using IT tools
The ITT is conducted at ICAI branches and certified centers. After successfully completing both basic and advanced ITT courses, students receive certificates, which are mandatory for progressing through the CA program.
2. Soft Skills Course (Orientation & Management and Communication Skills)
The Soft Skills Course focuses on developing interpersonal, management, and communication skills that are crucial for a CA’s professional success. Effective communication and management skills are essential, especially when dealing with clients, presenting reports, and leading teams. Like ITT, this course is offered at two levels:
a. Orientation Course (for CA Foundation/Intermediate)
Duration: 90 hours
Timing: Required before articleship or along with the CA Intermediate level.
Content:
Communication skills, including written and verbal communication
Basic management and leadership principles
Teamwork, collaboration, and client interaction techniques
Ethics, professional conduct, and integrity
Stress management and workplace etiquette
b. Management and Communication Skills (MCS) Course (for CA Final)
Duration: 90 hours (usually three weeks)
Timing: Must be completed during or after the articleship period and before appearing for the CA Final Examination.
Content:
Advanced communication and presentation skills
Negotiation skills and client relationship management
Leadership skills, conflict resolution, and team management
Time management and project management basics
Business and professional etiquette, public speaking, and personality development
Ethics in the workplace and adherence to ICAI’s professional conduct guidelines
These courses are conducted by certified trainers and provide practical exercises, group activities, and case studies to help students apply these skills in real-life scenarios.
Key Points to Remember
Mandatory for Certification: Completion of both ITT (Basic and Advanced) and Soft Skills (Orientation and MCS) courses is mandatory to appear for the CA Final exams.
Flexible Learning: ICAI offers flexibility by conducting these courses at multiple centers and branches, and in some cases, online or virtual formats are available.
Certification: Students receive certification upon completion of each training course, which must be submitted as proof before advancing to the next level.
Professional Growth: These courses enhance the employability and readiness of CA students, ensuring they possess both the technical and soft skills needed for a professional environment.
By incorporating IT and soft skills training, ICAI ensures that future Chartered Accountants are equipped with a well-rounded skill set, capable of adapting to the evolving demands of the finance and accounting industry.