Ministry Of Finance Collaborates With IMA To Launch CMA And FMAA Certifications For National Talent Development

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has partnered with the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) to introduce the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate (FMAA) certifications. This initiative aims to enhance the skills of national cadres in accounting and financial management, aligning with global standards. It is part of the Ministry's efforts to promote excellence in government finance by enabling employees to earn prestigious international certifications.

The MoU was signed at the Ministry's headquarters in Abu Dhabi, attended by key figures including Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, and other senior officials from both organisations. This collaboration is expected to significantly impact the development of national financial talent and support sustainable economic growth. The Ministry emphasises investing in human capital as crucial for transitioning towards a knowledge-based economy.

AlKhoori highlighted that obtaining certifications like CMA and FMAA reflects the Ministry's dedication to enhancing employee skills in federal finance. These certifications aim to improve transparency and efficiency in managing government resources according to international best practices. He noted that this partnership marks a significant step in empowering national cadres with advanced knowledge and tools, preparing them for rapid changes in public finance.

Mike DePrisco, President and CEO of IMA, expressed that this collaboration aligns with their mission to advance management accounting globally. "The UAE has always demonstrated excellence in building a future-ready economy," he stated. By equipping government talent with these certifications, the Ministry sets a global benchmark for excellence and strategic financial management.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation between MoF and IMA in accounting, financial management, and business development. It leverages IMA’s expertise to qualify accountants within the Ministry and federal entities through advanced training programmes leading to CMA and FMAA certifications. This effort aims to develop national professional talent while reinforcing institutional performance excellence.

Enhancing Professional Development

The agreement also includes collaboration on exchanging professional insights and consulting on international trends in business and accounting. This supports adopting global best practices, strengthening the UAE’s position as an advanced financial centre. Both parties will organise specialised events like conferences, seminars, workshops, forums, and round tables to bolster ongoing professional development for accounting professionals nationwide.

This MoU builds on previous successes where over 145 Emirati employees were qualified through collaborations with international associations in accounting standards, public finance, and sustainability. The initiative continues these efforts by providing advanced training opportunities that align with global standards, ensuring readiness for future challenges in finance.

By focusing on developing highly specialised capabilities within its workforce, the Ministry aims to lead public finance innovation while supporting sustainable economic growth across the UAE.

With inputs from WAM