Bridging Skill Gap of Future Accountant that Fits with Industry 4.0

Abstract

This study investigated accounting students in the year 2022–2023 category, who are mid-career professionals and professional accountants who are working with Non Big audit firms in Nigeria. Semi structure interview were used to ascertain whether or not they are adequately trained to surf in the new world of technology. It was found that, most accounting students reported having improved their skills in all computer skills and IT skill. However, their technical skill gains in accounting were greater than soft skills (emotional thinking, problem solving, analytical skills, and prediction ability and computer skill) needed to surf in the new world of technology. Emotional intelligence and cognitive skill were found to be the most skills needed in the industry 4.0. The study recommends that accounting instructors should focus more on soft skill than technical skills when training their students, so that they can response to the demand of industry 4.0 and remain relevance in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0).