Speaker
Description
Ibrahim, A. D.
Federal polytechnic nasarawa
adibrahimnas74@gmail.com
Track: AI, Emerging Technologies and Future Learning
Dr. Abdullahi Dalhatu Ibrahim
Department of Accounting
School of Business Studies
Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Email: adibrahimnas74@gmail.com
The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Financial Technology (FinTech), blockchain, and data analytics is transforming the accounting profession and redefining the competencies required of accounting graduates. However, many African higher education institutions continue to rely on traditional accounting curricula that provide limited exposure to emerging digital financial technologies and intelligent decision-support systems. This study examines the role of AI, FinTech, blockchain, and data analytics in transforming Accounting education for the Accounting 5.0 era. The objectives were to: (i) examine the relevance of emerging digital financial technologies in Accounting education; (ii) identify barriers to integrating AI, FinTech, blockchain, and data analytics into accounting curricula; (iii) evaluate their potential to enhance students' competencies in intelligent auditing, financial reporting, forensic accounting, digital taxation, and evidence-based decision-making; and (iv) propose a curriculum transformation framework aligned with Education 5.0, Accounting 5.0, and Smart Campus initiatives. The study adopts a qualitative review of contemporary literature, policy documents, and international best practices in digital accounting education. Findings indicate that integrating AI-powered accounting software, blockchain applications, predictive financial analytics, and digital auditing tools significantly enhances graduate employability, professional competence, innovation, and financial transparency while contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 and SDG 8. The study concludes that curriculum innovation, digital infrastructure investment, faculty capacity development, and stronger collaboration between higher education institutions, professional accounting bodies, and industry are essential for preparing accountants capable of leading Africa's digital financial transformation.
Keywords: Accounting Education, Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, Blockchain, Data Analytics, Intelligent Auditing, Accounting 5.0, Education 5.0, Smart Campuses, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).