RONO HILLS, Nov 10: The Department of Commerce, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) organised a one-day workshop, ‘ACCOFUTURE 2026’, on Tuesday to mark International Accounting Day, focusing on the changing landscape of accounting in the age of artificial intelligence, technological innovation and sustainability.
Held under the theme “Redefining Accounting in the Age of AI and Innovation”, the workshop brought together academicians, faculty members and students to deliberate on emerging trends and challenges in accounting and finance.
Addressing the inaugural session, RGU Vice-Chancellor Prof Shivaraj highlighted the importance of academic initiatives in preparing students and professionals for the changing demands of the accounting sector. He said accounting played a crucial role in strengthening integrity, transparency and trust in business and institutional practices.
He also drew attention to the expanding scope of the discipline, particularly environmental accounting and sustainability reporting, which are gaining importance in the contemporary business environment.
Prof Nikhil Bhusan Dey, former emeritus professor of Assam University, Silchar, who attended as guest of honour, traced the historical significance of International Accounting Day and recalled the contribution of Luca Pacioli, widely regarded as the Father of Accounting, to the development of the double-entry bookkeeping system. He also spoke on the evolving role of technology and innovation in accounting practices.
Prof SK Jena, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management, RGU, stressed the need to align accounting education with technological advancements and professional requirements, highlighting its practical relevance for commerce students.
During the technical sessions, Prof Arpita Ghosh of IIM Calcutta joined virtually and spoke on “Sustainability Reporting: Beyond Financial Statements”. She discussed sustainable development and the significance of Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) introduced by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). She stressed the need for credible sustainability disclosures and improved measurement frameworks to support informed decision-making.
In another session, Prof Dey deliberated on “Emerging Trends, Ethics, Technological Advancements and Challenges in the Area of Accounting and Finance”. He highlighted the growing relevance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations, professional ethics and corporate governance in ensuring accountability and transparency.
The inaugural programme also featured addresses by Prof RC Parida, HoD (in-charge), Department of Commerce, and Prof Otem Padung, Finance Officer, RGU, who moderated the first technical session.
Dr Vinod Kumar Yadav, Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, proposed the vote of thanks and acknowledged the support of Bank of Baroda in organising the workshop.
The department said the workshop reaffirmed its commitment to academic engagement and professional development, while providing students and faculty members an opportunity to understand the growing integration of AI, sustainability, ethics and innovation into contemporary accounting practices.