Harrison White
CamEd Business School in Cambodia marked the third term intake of its Master of Science in Accounting & Finance +ACCA Program with an industry networking event. Hosted at the Rosewood Hotel in Phnom Penh, it recognized the achievements of students in the program and reinforced the school’s dedication to nurturing the accounting sector in the Kingdom.
Established in 2000, CamEd Business School has emerged as a front-runner in training accounting and finance professionals. The school has secured accreditation from esteemed organizations such as the Accreditation Committee of Cambodia and the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA). CamEd is committed to delivering an education that meets international standards and significantly contributes to Cambodia’s rapidly growing economy.
According to IMF data, Cambodia’s economy has been growing at an average annual rate of 7.7% from 1994 to 2019, with a projected growth of 5.6% in 2023. This steady economic expansion has resulted in an increased demand for competent accountants, underscoring the necessity for professionals who can ensure transparency and efficient financial management.
The next generation of Cambodian business professionals
The networking event featured inspiring speeches from leading industry figures, including CamEd President Mr. Casey Barnett, CamEd Alumnus and ACCA Graduate, Deputy CEO of Wing Bank Mr. Hor Bunthe, and Mr. Raymond Sia, CEO of Canadia Bank, who brings almost 30 years of experience in the financial sector to the table.
Mr. Barnett, in his opening speech, emphasized the crucial role of ethics and human resources in Cambodia’s economic growth. He urged the next generation of Cambodian business professionals to step up and propel the nation’s continued economic development. “Our nation’s progress depends heavily on the development and empowerment of our human resources. It’s up to us, the emerging generation of Cambodian business professionals, to drive this growth,” he said.
Mr. Barnett further highlighted the importance of ethics in the business realm. “Success is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. It’s not merely about the end goals we achieve but the paths we take to get there. We need to underscore the importance of transparency and integrity in all our professional endeavors,” he elaborated.
He concluded his address by encouraging the students to dream big and be ambitious in their studies, saying, “Your ambitions will define your journey ahead. Never settle for less, aim high, and remember, you have the potential to change the course of our country’s economic future. I wish you all the best.”
Common traits that enhance career trajectory
In his address, Mr. Sia acknowledged that many attendees were already experienced professionals. He reassured every one of the high-quality education offered by CamEd and, from his wealth of management experience, shared the traits that could enhance their career trajectory.
“Adaptability is the first trait. The financial sector, like any other, is not immune to change, particularly with the technological advancements we see today. You need to be flexible and ready to adjust to changes in your industry and organization. The future is unpredictable, especially over the next 5 to 10 years,” he elaborated.
According to Mr. Sia, the second key trait is grit or perseverance. “Not every day will be fantastic in your career. There will be challenges, but having the courage to persevere despite these challenges is crucial. Remember, after a storm, the sun will always rise,” he remarked.
Mr. Sia concluded by emphasizing the importance of continuous learning. “The industry standards and expectations today are vastly different from what they were a decade ago. And I assure you, they’ll evolve significantly in the next 10 years. The quest for knowledge should never cease. My favorite phrase to my team is ‘I am still learning’, and I urge you all to adopt this mantra.”
Preparing students with in-depth understanding and practical experience
The Masters & ACCA program at CamEd prepares students with an in-depth understanding and practical experience in numerous aspects of accounting. This rigorous training ensures graduates are primed for prosperous careers in auditing, assurance, insurance, accounting, and finance.
CamEd’s unwavering commitment to excellence is reflected in its alumni, many of whom have secured prestigious positions in Ernst & Young, Grant Thornton, PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, BDO, and other major players in the banking sector. Moreover, CamEd is the sole Cambodian institute with finance qualifications recognized both regionally and globally, enabling students to confidently pursue their careers abroad.
Interested individuals seeking more information about the Masters & ACCA program or looking to apply, are encouraged to visit the school’s official website or email the admission team.
Contacts: Ms. Sam Sokuntheary, Senior Vice President & Head of Admissions, management@Cam-Ed.com Ms. Shauna O Mahony, Graduate Advisor, shauna@Cam-Ed.com
