Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants signs memorandum of understanding with 10 renowned Mainland universities to further expand cooperation network and jointly cultivate accounting professionals
The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the Cultivation of Accounting Professionals (MOU) with ten universities, including (in no particular order) Nankai University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Xiamen National Accounting Institute, China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing University of Technology, Liaoning University, Tianjin University of Finance and Economics, Jilin University of Finance and Economics, Guangdong University of Finance and Economics, and Shenyang Agricultural University. This collaboration will launch a series of initiatives focused on accounting talent development, including providing the latest industry insights and information on the Qualification Programme (QP) through the "New Partnership Scheme", co-hosting seminars on career development planning and QP, and conducting QP module exemption assessments for nominated courses.
Since 2009, HKICPA has collaborated with Mainland universities through accredited programmes, accumulating extensive experience and establishing a solid network of partner universities. To deepen exchanges and cooperation with Mainland universities, HKICPA launched the "New Partnership Scheme" in 2024. Under this scheme, HKICPA will conduct QP module exemption assessments for nominated university courses, facilitating eligible students to undertake the QP via a streamlined pathway. Additionally, participating universities and students will benefit from exclusive educational resources designed to accelerate their journey toward HKICPA membership. Currently, five universities have joined this scheme (in no particular order): Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai Lixin University of Accounting and Finance, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, and Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics.
Deepening university collaboration to advance the internationalization of the accounting profession
HKICPA President Edward Au stated, “HKICPA’s QP is highly recognized in major international capital markets. As one of the founding members of the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA), HKICPA holds mutual membership recognition agreements or mutual examination papers exemption agreements with 11 accounting bodies in the Mainland and overseas. These strategic partnerships unlock domestic and international career opportunities for our members, while elevating their professional value.”
He further added, “We are delighted to witness the rapid internationalization of accounting education across Mainland universities in recent years. Our enhanced cooperation with these institutions marks a significant milestone in our strategic expansion into the Mainland market. Looking ahead, we look forward to broadening our partnerships to leverage our expertise in talent development and standard-setting. Through diverse forms of collaboration, we will support universities in cultivating a new generation of accounting professionals proficient in local practices while equipped with a global perspective—ultimately paving their way to becoming Hong Kong CPAs by completing the QP.”
Zhang Jixun, Associate Dean of the Business School at Nankai University, stated, “As a founding member of the GAA, HKICPA’s qualification enjoys a high level of international recognition. The collaboration between Nankai University and HKICPA draws on the strengths of both parties to broaden students' global vision and career prospects. Through the joint cultivation of accounting talent, it also contributes to the long-term development of both the nation and Hong Kong. We anticipate a prosperous partnership between both institutions!”
Guo Wei, Head of Accounting and Taxation Department, School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), commented, “The collaboration between HUST and HKICPA represents an innovative model for deepening academia-industry integration to develop international accounting professionals. This strategic initiative converges academic excellence with industry transformation, while serving as a vital bond connecting Mainland China and Hong Kong in supporting national strategies. We anticipate jointly charting a new blueprint for excellence in accounting education and industry advancement through our synergistic expertise.”
Deng Jianping, Vice President and Party Committee Member of Xiamen National Accounting Institute (XNAI) (one of China's three national accounting institutes), emphasized, “As a core member of GAA, HKICPA's professional qualifications command global recognition in finance and accounting. Our strategic partnership will leverage XNAI's strengths as an MOE-designated training base—excelling in cultivating high-end professionals, industry practice, and policy research—while integrating HKICPA's international resources and standards. This synergy will enhance the global orientation and practical capabilities of accounting professionals, facilitate deeper Mainland-Hong Kong exchanges in accounting standards convergence and cross-border training, and collaboratively develop elite accounting professionals equipped to drive high-quality economic development in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and across the nation.”
