New Opportunities for Accounting Students Through IBSU and CPA PNG Partnership
April 30, 2025 2025-05-01 9:20New Opportunities for Accounting Students Through IBSU and CPA PNG Partnership
Mt. Eriama Campus, Port Moresby, April 11, 2025 – IBSUniversity’s School of Accounting and Finance, in partnership with Certified Practising Accountants Papua New Guinea (CPA PNG), held a certificate presentation ceremony for students enrolled in the Foundation of Accounting unit.
The initiative stems from a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IBSU and CPA PNG, paving the way for closer engagement between students and the accounting profession. Through this arrangement, 49 students were granted Student Membership with CPA PNG—an important first step in connecting academic study with professional development.

Student Membership with CPA PNG goes beyond just a title. It opens access to the CPA Foundation course, interactive workshops, and networking sessions that introduce students to the professional standards and expectations of the industry. These early experiences are essential for helping students grow into roles that demand ethical judgment and financial responsibility.

The event, held at the COE Training Hall, was attended by senior university officials and CPA PNG representatives. Prof. Ramachandran Arunachalam, Vice Chancellor of IBSUniversity, addressed the students, urging them to hold fast to their pursuit of CPA qualifications. He made sure the students are being reminded that while a career in accounting comes with its share of challenges, consistent effort and a strong work ethic, these challenges will open many doors.

Mr. Jobin Scaria, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic), also spoke at the event, offering practical advice on maintaining steady progress throughout the learning process and adjusting to the demands of the profession.

Dr. Rengalwar Srinivasan, Head of the School of Accounting and Finance, welcomed everyone to the ceremony and expressed his support for continued partnerships with CPA PNG and similar institutions. Dr. Thirumal Raman, lead facilitator of the Foundation of Accounting course, was central to coordinating the program and guiding students throughout the semester.

The partnership between IBSU and CPA PNG offers a grounded approach to learning—connecting classroom knowledge with real-world exposure. This is one of the initiatives that strengthens academic programs while helping students better understand the professional world.

Students received their certificates as CPA PNG Student Members and this spoke volumes about the value of this partnership and the opportunities it creates for these students to pursue a career in accounting. Moving forward, both institutions intend to build on this momentum and reinforce the link between academic learning and professional practice.
Contact:
Dr. Rengalwar Sirinivasan
Senior Lecturer
School of Accounting & Finance
IBSUniversity
PO Box 5181, Boroko, NCD
M: +675 70698105 / +675 74114100
PC: IBSU Media
Editing & Narrative Direction: IBSU Library & Information