Abstract:
This paper sought to establish the competency skills required by accoun-
tants to utilise 4IR technologies at their work places. The following specific questions
guided the study: What constitutes an accountant who is fit for purpose in the 4IR era?
What needs to be done for accountants in Africa to remain relevant? To answer these
questions the research adopted a qualitative research approach. A structured interview
guide and document review was used to gather qualitative data. Telephone interviews
were conducted with the selected members for the interview due to the covid-19
epidemic. Secondary data was gathered through desk research, which included ana-
lyzing various academic curricula of various institutions and syllabi of Professional
Accounting Organisations. The results from the study on the first objective show that
an African accountant needs mostly computer skills and critical thinking skills to
effectively navigate in the technology driven era. Other skills identified were emotional
intelligence, technical and analytical skills. The second research question indicated that African accountants are expected to have data management skills to effectively
execute their duties in this digital era. These skills include information technology skills,
data analytics, complex problem solving, specialised software, and business intelli-
gence. These skills need to be fused in the curricula of training institutions. Professional
Accounting Organizations, universities, and employers should structure their training
curricula in such a way that they impart cutting-edge technology such as block chain
and robotics as part of digital accounting so as to eliminate manual accounting and
enhance quality financial reporting.
