First ACA student graduation ceremony in China

The ICAEW held its first ACA student graduation ceremony in Beijing, China on 7 May 2009. 

The ceremony was attended by more than 100 people, including Institute members, students and their employers, representatives from the Chinese Institute of CPAs and other stakeholders. The ICAEW's Chief Executive, Michael Izza and CICPA's Secretary General, Dr Chen Yugui were keynote speakers.

Since ICAEW and CICPA launched their joint ACA training programme in 2006, which provides a "top-up" to the Chinese CPA qualification, more than 300 CICPA members have enrolled. The event not only celebrated the first 13 students becoming qualified ACAs in China, it also symbolized the strength of the relationship between ICAEW and CICPA, marking a new chapter of ICAEW's success in China.

Other speakers included students and representatives from their employers. On behalf of the ICAEW Foundation and Chartered Accountants Benevolent Association (CABA), Michael also presented an Inspiration Award to Andy Cheng from Nanjing. Andy was one of four winners selected for showing outstanding personal qualities in the face of adversity.

The speeches were followed by a reception and networking which lasted long into the evening.