TAKEAWAYS
Reimagining the future of high-tech industries.
Reframing the conventional narrative surrounding the value of accounting through conversations with top industry leaders.
Redefining what the accounting profession truly represents.
Truly, the China leg of the ISCA Global Talent Programme (GTP) proved to be a transformative experience for our four curious Singaporean accountancy and business undergraduates, namely, Aw Yong Qi from Singapore University of Social Sciences, Cristal Koh from National University of Singapore, Emily Chong from Singapore Management University (SMU), and Ji Sirui from Nanyang Technological University.
Over three enriching days in Shenzhen and Guangzhou, the GTP participants got an insider’s look at cutting-edge innovation, gained new global perspectives of the accounting and business landscape, and experienced cultural exchange in an immersion trip that included accountancy undergraduates and candidates taking the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ) from China. They come from institutes of higher learning such as China Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (上海财经大学), Zhejiang Gongshang University (浙江工商大学), and Nanjing University of Finance and Economics (南京财经大学).
Shenzhen, hailed as the “Silicon Valley of China”, offered participants a firsthand glimpse into China’s digital revolution. During the visit to Tencent, the tech giant behind WeChat, the participants saw China’s ambitious digital transformation come to life. From biometric palm-scanning payments to developing innovative artificial intelligence (AI) solutions that are woven into various industries, the participants witnessed how Tencent is building a forward-looking digital ecosystem where their technology is deeply embedded into the fabric of everyday life.
“As someone accustomed to using multiple apps for different functions, experiencing the breadth of WeChat’s all-in-one capabilities – from social media and messaging to cashless payments and ride ordering – truly showcased how super apps are redefining digital convenience,” shared Cristal.
Yong Qi echoed this, adding that Tencent’s social responsibility initiatives left a deep impression. “Seeing how they use technology to support underserved communities made me rethink the role that tech companies can play – not just in innovation, but also in making a positive impact.”
The tour of Midea Group and its robotics subsidiary KUKA unveiled the power of automation, and how it is reforming the future of industries such as healthcare, manufacturing and logistics, to name a few. The participants witnessed an ultra-automated production line, powered by robotics, running smoothly with only one person overseeing it all.
Emily, too, was awed by all she saw. On their visit to robotics company Padbot Robot, she noted how automating the systems is “transforming commercial service delivery in hospitality, healthcare, and retail through cutting-edge robotic solutions”.
“(It) was truly mind-blowing,” said Cristal. “While such advanced technologies greatly improve efficiency, they also made me reflect on the value of human labour and the potential risks of automation replacing us.”
Meanwhile, a visit to Singrow, a Singaporean agri-tech startup operating in China, opened their eyes to how AI and vertical farming are revolutionising agriculture.
Sirui, inspired by the fusion of biotech and sustainability, said, “It was inspiring to see how innovation is not just about efficiency, it is also about reimagining entire industries.”
As future professionals, the participants also delved into the evolving world of accounting by hearing directly from the top industry and accounting firm leaders. They met Ms Li Yin, Director at Guangdong Institute of Certified Public Accountants; Mr Nie Tie Liang, Managing Partner, and Mr Zhao Zhun, Head of International Division, at Guangdong Zhongzhixin Certified Public Accountants LLP, Guangdong’s top local accounting firm; and Ms Lynn Chen, Chair of ISCA’s Guangzhou Chapter. Through the conversations, the participants gained valuable insights on how technology, regulation, and practice come together in shaping the future of the profession. They also learned how these firms are embracing digital tools and deepening their regulatory expertise to meet the demands of a fast-changing economic environment.
In a small-group discussion, Ms Gu Xufen, Chief Partner, Unitax Zhenqing Certified Public Accountants LLP, shared her perspective on how the accounting industry is changing. Firms are no longer just focused on traditional audit and tax services; instead, they are expanding into more specialised, value-added areas tailored to client needs. “As an accountancy student, this reminded me that our profession is evolving, and we need to stay adaptable in order to stay relevant,” reflected Yong Qi.
Meanwhile, a visit to the Sun Yat-sen University School of Business, where they met Associate Professor Kong Xiangting, enriched participants’ understanding about how academia is shaping the next generation of accountancy leaders. Through its worldclass curriculum and prestigious triple accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA), the school exemplifies the rigorous academic foundation driving the future of the profession.
Beyond corporate visits, the programme offered opportunities for cultural immersion. The visit to China-Singapore Guangzhou Knowledge City signifies the international collaboration between China and Singapore in co-creating the future of smart cities and nurturing high-end international talents. “This hub truly symbolises cross-border innovation and facilitates knowledge exchange between Singapore and China,” commented Cristal.
From exploring the Sun Yat-sen University campus to learning about the Five Elements Theory in Chinese medicine at Guangzhou Shennong Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the experience was as much about personal growth as it was about professional development.
Sirui remarked that the conversations with local students, whether over dim sum or during long bus rides, reinforced in him “how much perspective we gain when we step outside our personal bubbles”.
LOOKING AHEAD: BUILDING GLOBAL MINDSETS
As the trip concluded, the participants returned to Singapore with more than just photos and keepsakes. They also brought home new outlooks, friendships and a greater sense of purpose.
“A heartfelt thank you to ISCA for making this trip possible. I return to Singapore with new friendships, wider horizons, and a deeper appreciation for what it means to be a globally minded accounting professional,” expressed Sirui.
“Being part of GTP China was an incredibly immersive and enriching experience,” said Emily. “It deepened my understanding of the regional business landscape and allowed me to build meaningful international connections with peers from across China.”
In a world where lines between industries, countries, and cultures are increasingly blurred, ISCA’s GTP is doing more than preparing students for the workforce; it is shaping globally minded, future-ready professionals.
Stay tuned to find out what went down during the week-long GTP in Singapore.
Part 2 of this article features what Tay Jo-Van, who penned it, calls an “unfiltered, authentic and genuine reflection” of GTP from the standpoint of ISCA and the “17th GTP participant” (himself). The Year 1 SMU School of Accountancy undergraduate’s internship, with ISCA’s Members and Stakeholders Engagement team, revolved around the flagship GTP programme, spanning planning, publicity, logistics and, ultimately, execution.
© 2024 Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants
