In the highly complex CIMA curriculum, the Management Level is yet another challenge: one that must be overcome. In order to assist you in surpassing this challenge, Wisdom, the pioneer CIMA institute in Sri Lanka, offers you the best possible lecture panel. Consisting of a group of diverse individuals with the most relevant and exciting corporate experience under their belts, they will ensure that coursing through the Management Level to the Strategic Level is no difficult task.

Performance Management
Performance Management, the performance pillar subject of the Management Level, is an area where both your theoretical skills and numerical skills get tested. Hasitha Premaratne, Wisdoms' highly popular lecturer for Performance Management will make sure that you are not at a loss when it comes to either of these skills.

Heading the finance function at Brandix Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, Hasitha's diverse and colourful corporate experience in areas such as capital markets, economics, finance and management adds flavour to his classes. He has produced over 12 Sri Lankan prize winners during his lecturing career of 10 years, while also having received the prestigious CIMA 'Tutor of the Year' Award for 2009. His academic and professional qualifications include an MBA in International Finance and a BSc in Computer Science, along with associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and the Society of Certified Management Accountants and also fellow membership of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

Enterprise Management
Enterprise Management, with a greater focus on the business and its competitive environment, requires students to gain a thorough understanding of the theoretical aspects and also to apply them in typical company related scenarios. Lectures for Enterprise Management are carried out by Tharindu Amaresekere, a young and vibrant lecturer who has received much praise and acclaim from his students over the past 6 years.

Tharindu bears many academic and professional qualifications, which include a Bachelor's Degree in computing. He is also the only EM lecturer in Sri Lanka to hold a Master's Degree in Project Management, a vital component of the EM syllabus. He is currently studying for his MBA specialising in Marketing from the University of Colombo and CIM Diploma in Marketing.

Currently employed as a brand consultant for an international web solutions organisation, Tharindu's combined local and international experience renders him the perfect lecturer for a theory related subject in the likes of EM, where building the link between theory and practicality will never lose importance. His keenness on practising Corporate Stimulus Teaching, where theory is aligned with real world companies, has won him a large fan club among CIMA students. He also provides individual focus for improvement of writing skills, which will assist in presenting your arguments in a succinct and comprehensive manner.

Financial Management
For Financial Management, Wisdom presents two individuals with well respected financial and teaching skills. Mallik de Silva, who has found much favour among his students as a friendly and approachable person, has over 15 years lecturing experience. Currently serving as the Group Finance Manager at Richard Pieris and Company PLC, he counts diverse and versatile exposure in many multinational organisations. An associate member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka and a fellow member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants UK, he also possesses an MSc in Financial Management.

Akalanka Saparamadu, who joins Mallik at Financial Management, is a CIMA passed finalist who has also completed his Bachelor of Business Administration (Finance Special) degree with a First Class from the University of Colombo. At present, he is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) - Level 3 candidate. Akalanka is presently employed at HSBC Sri Lanka as an Account Relationship Manager.
Together the duo has produced many prize winners and consistently maintained above average pass rates. Their combined efforts in teaching will expose you to a novel experience in finance.

In addition to the stimulating back up received from the lecture panel, Wisdom also provides you with a balanced environment where extra-curricular activities are promoted without disturbing academic activities. Thus, your CIMA studies are bound to be a combination of fun and success. When you are being presented with such a great opportunity to be coached under the best quality lecture panel for CIMA, would you want to say 'no'? Join Wisdom and experience a refreshing CIMA journey. Classes for Management Level began on June 4 2011.

Wisdom Business Academy - the specialist in CIMA education announces that registrations are now open for CIMA Foundation Level (Certificate in Business Accounting). Lectures are scheduled to commence on September 11 and 13.

As during its past batches at Foundation Level, Wisdom's proven methodology in introducing one to the concept of Management Accounting continues to be in place for those who want to start their career with a prestigious and world-recognised professional qualification. The Certificate in Business Accounting focuses on imparting the basics of accounting and business to school leavers, undergraduates as well as those who are already in the work place. The course duration spans five months, with additional time for revision and exams so that the student may graduate to its next level within a minimum time frame.
Wisdom Business Academy is an accredited CIMA (UK) Learning Quality Partner with an ISO 9001:2008 accreditation. It was founded in 2002 on the principle of grooming tomorrow's Management Accountants with financial expertise and strategic ability to take them closer towards career goals and success. In maintaining its accreditation as a CIMA Learning Quality Partner, it closely follows compliance guidelines stipulated by CIMA (UK).

Wisdom Business Academy is among the largest CIMA Business School in Sri Lanka. The priority of the Wisdom is to provide solid academic assistance to its students. Its lecturer panel has time and again proved their worth not only in helping students academically but also psychologically in boosting their self-esteem and confidence, which does contribute immensely, in mental preparation for their exams.
In its focus to function as the breeding ground of employable management accountants, the Wisdom Business Academy is composed of both academic and non-academic personnel. A dedicated Student Registrar and a Student Coordinator have been appointed by Wisdom management to add value to its course delivery, maintenance and development. Both these personnel are readily available to students as well as their parents, should they require further assistance before and during the progression of the course. These personnel will work alongside the lecture panel to keep student morale and success high.

Lecturer panel
Wisdom's lecturer panel consists of individuals that personify the latest requirements set by CIMA-UK. Each individual possesses sound education and professional qualifications and tacit industry insight that can accrue from only practical work experience in the industries and organisations they have and do work in. This industry insight and expertise benefits Wisdom's students as it encourages contextualising practice theories taught at lectures, in that it teaches the process of how to think in a real business scenario and hones individual decision making skills. Wisdom's iconic lecturer panel takes a student from foundation level right up to the final stage of CIMA with tips and nuances in the preparation and performance at exams.

Personalised attention
Due to its effective teaching methods and its unwavering attitude to focus solely on CIMA, Wisdom's effectiveness at delivering success stories at exams is evidenced through the large number of student enrolments it attracts at every intake. The academy practises meticulous organising to ensure that each and every student is evaluated and given individual feedback on his/her progress and this formula continues to reap enormous results in terms of performance.

Parents' Day
Wisdom's initiative of a Parents' Day is a proven success story that streamlines student progress and acts as a discussion forum that helps preparing for further levels of CIMA. Parental feedback is taken into account while an assessment of students is outlined with suggestions for their improvement.

Lecture evaluation
The Wisdom Business Academy maintains a lecture evaluation process which involves the participation of each student. This takes place mid-way through the course as well as at the end of it. The management aims to take account student feedback on the style of lecture delivery and its effectiveness. Records are maintained for each lecturer and any gap between the targeted and genuine performance is bridged by an action plan - that modifies teaching methodology to ensure student satisfaction.

Revision
The academy conducts comprehensive revision sessions free of charge with two exams in class and the option for unlimited mock exams for each student to take at its computer lab.

A holistic approach to education
Wisdom continues its aspiration to enrich each student's learning experience by encouraging participation in extra-curricular activities. This initiative is given life through its Student Council Body. In its holistic approach to education that goes beyond the classroom, the academy provide opportunities for students to be involved in the planning and implementation of various activities such as community outreach initiatives, cultural programmes and sporting events.

Payments and scholarships
Wisdom accepts course fees through credit card, as well as cash and part payments are allowed on special cases. The academy also awards scholarships on merit and need basis. Students with excellent results, island and district placements at A/Ls qualify as eligible for merit-based scholarships.
Wisdom is conveniently located at No.15B, Station Road, Colombo 3 and offers above-the-average infrastructure facilities such as fully air-conditioned and spacious classrooms with the latest teaching aids; comprehensive library and a computer based examination centre; an in-house cafeteria; parking facilities; as well as job placements and career guidance centre.

Wisdom maintains an ethos of quality as it contributes positively to the job market. In doing so, it remains focused on the ever-evolving employer requirements.

I believe my practice has improved greatly since attending the CIMA program. I’m now able to demystify portfolio management by better setting client expectations and moderating their behavior through financial education. Read about Alex's experience »

—Alexander DiMartini, CIMA®, Managing Director at SoundView Wealth Management Group LLC

I am very happy to report that I passed the CIMA exam! Although I was part of the educational program at another school, there is no way I could have passed without the Chicago Booth review program and having been also granted access to the Chicago Booth CIMA program educational materials and live session videos. Kathleen’s voice was a constant companion as I listened to classes driving and even while on family vacation. Thank you so very much!

—Alan P. Jesiel, CFP®, CIMA®, Vice President, Senior Relationship Strategist, PNC Wealth Management

The University of Chicago has a well-planned approach to teaching the CIMA curriculum. All of the important concepts are covered in a clear, concise format. The professors really want to make sure you understand the material and go to great lengths to provide intuition behind some of the math concepts. The class is very interactive and the faculty make themselves easily accessible throughout the class. I strongly recommend this program to anyone considering attaining the designation.

—Todd Muentzer, CIMA®, ETF Specialist

This was a great overall experience.  Kathleen does a great job presenting and reviewing the content.  It was also beneficial to connect with other students preparing for the exam.

—Jon Maldonado, Financial Advisor, UBS Financial Services

Excellent program with in-depth analysis of calculation needed for course material.

—Robert Filetti, Robert Baird

This class was far above my expectations.  This is a great value for the cost.

—Alicia Frye, Regional Business Consultant, Symmetry Partners

I got the passing score I needed to finally achieve my CIMA credentials. I was and am still ecstatic about this accomplishment and absolutely credit it to the Chicago Booth workshop and team for helping me get here. I would tell anyone interested in the CIMA program or who is trying to finish the certification process that the Booth workshop is the way to go.

—Jen Litton, CDFA, CIMA®

Having the two day review class at Booth is a major differentiator from the other education programs. Having a two day intensive review upon completion of the material helped me identify areas of weakness that I needed to focus on before the test and embolden my confidence in the material I knew well coming into the exam.

—Greg Goin CFP®, CIMA®, CLU®, CRPC® Advisory Solutions Director

The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants unveiled a new educational report on climate resilience Monday, the fourth in a series of online documents aimed at educating accountants about sustainability.

Accounting for Climate Resilience  aims to help finance professionals lead their organizations with initiatives like scenario analysis and adaptation planning so they can build greater resilience. It comes amid alarming signs of climate change, as record-setting temperatures have hit the U.S., Europe and other parts of the world in latest days. 

The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants is the umbrella organization for the American Institute of CPAs and the London-based Chartered Institute of Professional Accountants, together known as AICPA & CIMA.

"Finance professionals are at the heart of business and therefore are well-placed to help create resilient business models and implement strategies for organizational sustainability in a changing world," said Martin Farrar, associate technical director at AICPA & CIMA, in a statement. "They have connections within the business and can join the dots with stakeholders outside the business to start conversations about what resilience looks like in relation to the risks posed by the climate emergency."

This and the other educational briefs try to help organizations and their accountants consider sustainability issues, integrate them into long-term decision-making, and incorporate them within internal and external reporting.

The previous reports included Accounting for the Sustainable Development Goals, Accounting for Carbon and Accounting for Nature. 

Accountants have increasingly become involved in providing assurance services for sustainability reporting, in line with the trend toward greater environmental, social and governance reporting, as more companies provide shareholders with ESG reports. 

The AICPA & CIMA have been encouraging accountants to provide such services. "With their skills and knowledge, finance professionals can provide insights into organizational governance, strategy, risk management, and performance to support sustainable decision-making built on sound business analysis and assurance of both financial and non-financial information, including sustainability-related data," said Jeremy Osborn, global head of ESG at AICPA & CIMA," in a statement. "They are ideally placed to support climate scenario development and build this into organizational adaptation plans."

Last month, the Center for Audit Quality updated its analysis of the number of S&P 500 companies providing ESG assurance, and found the number of S&P 500 companies reporting ESG information grew from 93% to 99%. The number of companies seeking assurance over certain ESG metrics increased by 13% from 2020, from 52% to 65%. Of the companies that assured their ESG information, 18% engaged a public company auditor. The majority of companies that used a public company auditor to assure their ESG information used the same firm that performed their financial statement audit. In 2021, the scope of information being subject to assurance increased, especially when public company audit firms provided the assurance

There has been a backlash against ESG investment funds in some conservative-led states like Florida and Texas, and Republicans in Congress have been holding hearings in latest months in an effort to discourage ESG investment funds and sustainability reporting. Nevertheless, such reporting is likely to remain in demand, especially with the Securities and Exchange Commission expected to finalize the rule it proposed last year for climate-related disclosures sometime this fall. Many other countries have already begun moving forward with the European Union imposing a Corporate Reporting Sustainability Directive, and the International Sustainability Standards Board finalizing its sustainability and climate disclosure standards late last month.

Five decades ago, the U.S. was training an army of college students to become teachers, with 1 in every 5 bachelor's degrees earned in the field of education. That guaranteed a steady pipeline of educators entering the profession, a vital resource for schools around the country, and for the economy as a whole.

Today, education is an afterthought for many college students, who are more likely to study business, engineering, and even the visual and performing arts, according to data from the National Center for Educational Statistics. Even as the population of college students has increased by 150% since 1970, the number of bachelor's degrees in education has plummeted by almost 50% — a steeper drop than that for English, literature and foreign language majors.

Meanwhile, schools in all 50 states report teacher shortages in at least one subject area last year, according to the Brookings Institution.

The shift away from studying education in college represents a massive change in the career goals and aspirations for Gen-Z students compared with older generations, hinting at the underlying economic and societal changes that have transformed the U.S. since the 1970s. Women, who have always composed the bulk of education majors, have more options in the workplace compared with five decades ago, while teachers' relatively low pay and declining societal respect are also to blame, experts told CBS MoneyWatch.

"In the past, we had many more women who were more inclined to pursue this 'caring' education career," said Nicole Smith, research professor and chief economist at the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. "They were instructed in some ways to follow this path, but a lot of that has changed."

Back in the 1960s and 1970s, when the baby boomer generation was coming of age, women enrolled in college and entered the workforce in greater numbers than did earlier generations, yet they were largely concentrated in fields that were viewed as feminine or caretaking roles, such as nursing, teaching and social work.

At the time, teaching was viewed as a good career option for women with children because they could have summers off and school holidays, noted Chris Torres, associate professor at the at University of Michigan's Marsal Family School of Education.

"Now that other types of jobs have opened up to women over the last few decades, you're seeing fewer highly educated women enter the profession," he added. 

Teacher pay gap

But the reasons for declining interest in education as a college major extend beyond the greater career options for women, experts note. A big issue is the relatively low pay earned by teachers compared with other college-educated professionals.

"I taught kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade, and it was by far the hardest job I've ever had," Torres said. "People talk about having a lot of teachers being social workers, and all these other jobs that teachers have to take on within their work."

Torres added, "So whether you're paid competitively relative to jobs that are equally complex and difficult matters a lot to whether you want to get into a profession."

The math on teacher pay may not add up for college students. Teachers are generally paid less than their college-educated peers, a trend that has worsened over the last several decades, according to the Economic Policy Institute. Public school teachers now earn about 24% less than other college-educated professionals, the biggest gap since 1979, the a left-leaning think tank noted. 

At the same time, getting a college degree today is far more expensive than it was in 1970, which is also driving students away from studying education given the modest pay for teachers.

"People are making decisions on college that have an economic slant to it, in particular in respect to student loans," Georgetown's Smith noted. "The conversation now has to be more about the returns to investment and, 'How are we going to pay for it?' and 'Is it worth it in the long run?'"

"Failure as a society to value education"

Recent societal trends are also sapping college students' desire to study education, including the pandemic and what many perceive as a decline in respect for the teachers, noted Qudsia Saeed, a 4th-year education major at American University in Washington, D.C. A series of school shootings in latest years have also added to the demoralization felt by education students, she added.

"The general consensus is that people are stuck in the major and they just want to graduate at this point," Saeed said. "A lot of that sentiment is attributed to COVID and the uncertainty with the education system. People feel demotivated, and I think this is because of our failure as a society to value education."

Saeed said that while her parents are educators, "They're not very supportive" of her decision to enter the field. "I think they're unsupportive because they've seen the struggles of working in education themselves and they're burnt out from it," she added.

Only about 18% of Americans would encourage a young person to become a K-12 teacher, according to a 2022 poll from NORC at the University of Chicago. The chief reason was low pay, followed by a lack of resources to meet student needs and a what is often an excessive workload. 

"I don't think we've done enough to professionalize teaching and to raise the prestige of teaching, and to treat it like a true profession and be competitive around pay," Torres said.

For now, Saeed said she's sticking with education partly because she believes the profession needs to be more diverse, although over the long-term she is considering switching to education policy or law.

"Students need representation, and I think that is so critical that it makes me stay in the field," she said. "It makes me happy when students ask me questions about Ramadan or my hijab, or students tell me their family is Muslim or show me their henna."

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Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and AICPA & CIMA are excited to introduce their jointly designed executive management course.

This tailored course is intended for accountancy and finance professionals, equipping them to lead their companies’ initiatives in response to environmental and sustainability challenges.

Manchester CFOs and professionals working in senior strategic roles or within the office of the CFO can enrol in the part-time online course for £1,900.

The “Sustainable Finance and ESG Strategy” program offers an in-depth understanding of environmental, human capital, and governance principles.

It educates participants on reporting standards, assurance parameters, and how sustainability factors can sway a company’s decision-making and value preservation.

This six-week online module includes insights from esteemed experts, leading accounting executives, and prominent corporate heads, shedding light on current industry trends and concerns.

AICPA & CIMA is short for The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, two organisations which combined in 2017.

Oxford Saïd Online’s director, Caroline Williams, commented on the collaboration with the Association, globally recognized as a premier accountancy body.

She highlighted the course’s role in cultivating leaders focused on sustainable financial growth, profitability, and enduring value.

Williams said: “Collaborations like these are crucial in navigating the challenges of global sustainability.”

The course is set to kick off on 27 September, with subsequent sessions planned quarterly.

The inaugural batch does not qualify for continuing professional education (CPE) credits, but subsequent iterations will.

Oxford Saïd’s online approach blends multimedia content, archived webinars, and optional group discussions, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

Participants are continuously evaluated based on their performance in practical online assignments.

Participants can expect to:

• Gain insight into the fundamental aspects of sustainable finance in the business context.
• Identify potential avenues for integrating sustainability into their business strategy.
• Weigh the benefits and challenges of adopting various sustainability practices.
• Understand key regulations and standards relevant to their organization.
• Learn best practices in corporate governance and managing sustainability reputation.
• Design a holistic sustainability transformation plan for their organization.

Jeremy Osborn, AICPA & CIMA’s global head of Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG), emphasised the growing global focus on sustainability.

He pointed out the increasing investor interest in a broader definition of business value that transcends traditional financial measures.

Osborn said: “The finance and accounting community are at this transformation’s vanguard and must be equipped with the latest knowledge.”

Upon course completion, participants will be awarded a digital certificate co-issued by Oxford Saïd and AICPA & CIMA.

The program also presents an unmatched opportunity to build global networks centred on sustainability.

Additionally, alumni are granted exclusive access to the Oxford Saïd’s Alumni Network.

For Manchester accounting individuals eager on expanding their knowledge in the ESG domain, AICPA & CIMA offers additional courses.

To learn more about their fundamental ESG certificate course, click here.