Veranda Learning partners with NSDC, IAB to launch international accounting program

Veranda Learning Solutions Limited, in collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers (IAB), UK, has announced the launch of the Certified International Accounting Professional (CIAP) program. This six-month certification aims to bridge the skills gap in India’s accounting sector, preparing students for lucrative careers in the rapidly expanding Finance and Accounting Business Process Outsourcing (F&A BPO) market, projected to reach $134.65 billion by 2032.

A game-changer for commerce students

Positioned as a transformational credential, the CIAP program is tailored to equip students with globally recognized accounting and bookkeeping expertise. Developed in partnership with the IAB—an institution boasting over 100 years of experience in accounting certifications—the curriculum aligns with the latest demands of the Outsourced Accounting Services (OAS) sector.

Veranda Learning Solutions will serve as the implementation partner, leveraging its extensive training infrastructure and its established brands such as JK Shah Classes, Logic School of Management, and Tapasya College of Commerce and Management. With over 70 years of collective experience, these institutions train nearly 100,000 commerce students annually, ensuring the CIAP program is delivered with excellence.

India’s role in global outsourcing

India’s prominence as a global outsourcing leader underpins the program’s importance. According to the recent “India GCC Landscape Report” by Nasscom and Zinnov, the country hosts over 1,700 Global Capability Centres (GCCs), generating $64.6 billion in revenue in FY2024. As these hubs expand into Tier-2 cities, including Pune and Coimbatore, the demand for skilled finance professionals is surging.

Highlighting the program’s significance, Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC, remarked that the CIAP initiative would empower Indian students with internationally recognized qualifications, equipping them to excel in a thriving global market.

Industry-aligned training and support

The CIAP program’s practical focus ensures job readiness. Students gain access to globally benchmarked skills and are supported by NSDC’s partnerships with financial institutions to provide accessible loans. This initiative reinforces inclusivity, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to participate.

Sarah Palmer, CEO of IAB, emphasized the importance of delivering high-quality qualifications through the CIAP program, which caters to the rising global demand for finance and accounting professionals.

Looking ahead

Suresh Kalpathi, Executive Director and Chairman of Veranda Learning, noted that this collaboration combines Veranda’s educational expertise, NSDC’s reach, and IAB’s global insights. He added that with 320 new GCCs projected to open in India by 2025, the CIAP program will provide students with the skills and exposure needed to thrive in dynamic, high-growth sectors.