About this learning event

This blended learning initiative, featuring hands-on activities, will provide practical learning experiences and skills development tailored to accountants’ specific work environments. Participants will gain actionable insights to navigate challenges and implement effective accounting reforms in their organizations. The key areas of focus will include the differences between cash accounting and accrual accounting, with dedicated sessions on fixed assets, liabilities, payables, and receivables. Each session will examine the accounting for a range of transactions under both the cash accounting and accrual accounting bases. The sessions will also address practical issues related to moving from cash to accrual accounting.

This initiative will combine online and face-to-face sessions, each focusing on different topics linked to the overarching theme of understanding the differences between cash and accrual accounting and how to transition between them. The workshop will be interactive, and participants are expected to discuss real-life situations from their countries. Additionally, s short practical assignment will be required for participation in the workshop.

What will you learn

This blended learning initiative is designed to enhance accountants’ practical knowledge, deepen their understanding of relevant regulations and procedures, and strengthen their ability to perform their roles effectively. By working on concrete tasks and projects, participants will gain valuable practical insights, refine their competencies, and strengthen their problem-solving skills.

During this initiative, we will:

• Discuss how to transform accounting by navigating cash versus accrual accounting,
• Examine how to use accrual information to inform decision-making,
• Explore how accrual accounting can support the anti-corruption agenda,
• Cover IPSAS adoption (general notes and IPSAS 33),
• Address technical versus non-technical accounting reform drivers, and offer opportunities for the exchange of regional practices.

In break-out groups, participants will explore different topics related to the transition to accrual accounting, such as budgeting and forecasting, IT systems and digitalization, change management, and different types of transactions. Participants will have the opportunity to choose the break-out group and topic they wish to discuss.

Understanding these factors will help participants implement systems and controls alongside accrual accounting to maximize its benefits, identify potential corruption risks, and support the anti-corruption agenda.

Who should attend 

The learning initiative is designed for public sector accountants involved in implementing accounting reforms and transitioning to accrual accounting, accountants working on IPSAS implementation, and accountants whose work contributes to and is affected by these reform changes.

Faculty

This learning initiative will be delivered by:

• Paul Mason, CIPFA Expert
• Vladan Martić, Associate Professor, Mediterranean University, Podgorica
• Mladen Vlahović, Chief Financial Officer, Montenegrin Olympic Committee
• Daniel Stojanovski, Director, DAMAIS Consulting and Founder of MoiFinansii
• Marina Trpeska, Head of Accounting and Auditing Department, Faculty of Economics – Skopje

Practical information

This essential practical information will ensure participants have a clear overview of the event timeline and are well-prepared for a successful workshop experience:

• Webinar: October 18, 2024, from 13:00 – 15:00 CET
• Assignment Submission Deadline: November 11, 2024
• Face-to-face Workshop: November 27 – 28, 2024
• Travel and Accommodation Costs: Covered or up to two selected participants from the CEF constituency will be covered by the Ministry of Finance of Slovenia.

Partners

This learning initiative is supported by: