Pune: ICAI seeks inclusion of commerce in school curriculum; announces ₹500-crore scholarship fund
Pune: ICAI seeks inclusion of commerce in school curriculum; announces ₹500-crore scholarship fund
Pune, November 21, 2025: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has urged the Maharashtra government to include commerce as a subject in the school curriculum from Classes 5 to 10. Western India Regional Council (WIRC) of ICAI, chairman CA Ketan Saiya said on Wednesday that the proposal has received “a positive response” from school education minister Dada Bhuse, the education secretary, and MSCERT director Rahul Rekhawar.
CA Ketan Saiya said the ICAI has requested that dedicated lessons on commerce be incorporated in school textbooks. “Senior officials have suggested forming a committee of expert chartered accountants to draft the course content. This gives clarity that commerce could find space in the revised school curriculum,” he said.
Saiya also announced that ICAI has set up a ₹500-crore scholarship fund for students pursuing the Chartered Accountancy course, particularly those from economically weaker sections. “Students whose parents’ annual income is below ₹5 lakh are eligible. The scholarship is offered without any conditions,” he said.
A delegation of WIRC office-bearers visited several institutions in Pune on Wednesday and later interacted with the media at the ICAI’s Pune branch in Bibwewadi. Those present included WIRC vice-chairman CA Piyush Chandak, secretary CA Jeenal Savla, treasurer CA (Dr.) Fenil Shah, Pune branch of WIRC of ICAI, chairman; CA Sachin Miniyar, Regional Council Members CA Abhishek Dhamne, CA Rekha Dhamankar, CA Rajesh Agarwal, and Pune branch office-bearers CA Pranav Apte, CA Nilesh Yeolekar, CA Neha Phadke, CA Sarika Dindokar, CA Pritesh Munot, and CA Nandkumar Jadhav.
Speaking about the CA curriculum, Saiya said specialised online modules are being conducted to bridge the gap between academic content and professional requirements. “Technology and competition are the two major challenges before the CA profession. The demand for chartered accountants continues to exceed supply, and more students should consider the course as an option for higher education,” he added.
Pune branch chairman CA Sachin Miniyar said internships are provided to students to ensure practical exposure, and campus selections are conducted through educational institutions. “Although the course is rigorous, students now have three opportunities every year to appear for examinations. Revisions to the curriculum are made periodically to keep it industry-oriented and student-centric,” he said.
During the visit, WIRC office-bearers were felicitated with the Puneri pagdi and Ganesh idols.
