IRBA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 47

Issue 47 | July - September 2019 3 that prospective RAs are trained appropriately through a structured programme. A delayed ADP registration while one is working on audits as a manager, sometimes for years, would result in a deferred registration as an RA. Also, it could mean that the specialised development up until that point does not meet the minimum requirements. The implication for the individual then is that it would take longer to achieve the RA designation, in addition to possibly being required to once again demonstrate specific competencies within a structured framework. Lastly, it is important to emphasise that the role of ORAs in training and developing future auditors is key. While it is a different approach from that used in the past, we believe that the hands-on, active mentoring by ORAs will produce future auditors who meet the competency requirements. As the ADP is the joint responsibility of the IRBA and the firms, we encourage ORAs to engage with the IRBA so as to understand the programme requirements fully. That way, we can increase the pool of skilled and competent auditors, who are much needed at the moment. Also, it is imperative that this pool be diversified in terms of race and gender. Such skilled and competent auditors will make the audit profession the sought-after career it used to be, especially for those young professionals who aspire to protect the public interest and contribute to our economic growth. Bernard Peter Agulhas Chief Executive Officer FROM THE CEO’S DESK cont.