BY NED GAGAHE
Johnson Lobo, President of Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) says the accounting profession in the Solomon Islands must rapidly evolve to keep pace with global economic and technological changes.
Speaking at the 2025 ISIA Annual Congress at Heritage Park Hotel, on Thursday, August 21, 2025, he highlighted the powerful forces reshaping the financial landscape, including advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), geopolitical shifts, and climate change.
Lobo said these forces are not distant as we are seeing them here at home.
All the more, he added that businesses increasingly, rely on technology over manual labour, face rising financial pressures, and contend with insecurity in global supply chains.
“As seen in our own economy, and likewise, in many overseas countries, business practices and processes are changing rapidly, with the advancement of technology such as Al, increased usage of technology over manual labour to get work done, increased external financial pressures, global supply chain insecurity, etc.” Lobo said.
He stressed that these changes demand new knowledge and skills from professionals and decision-makers, both locally and internationally.
Henceforth, Lobo said accountants must learn quickly and apply innovative approaches to remain relevant and effective in this rapidly changing environment.
The two-day congress, held under the theme “Shaping the Solomon Islands Future Economic and Financial Landscape – Relevance of the Accounting Profession,” brought together 87 participants from the public and private sectors as well as regional and international experts.
Lobo emphasized that the Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) is taking strategic steps to modernize the profession, positioning it as a forward-looking and internationally reflective body.
He said the goal is to ensure that accountants contribute meaningfully to the long-term sustainability of the Solomon Islands’ economy and social wellbeing.
The congress featured interactive panels, keynote speeches, and sessions that aim to equip accountants with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving economic landscape.
Photo: Australian High Commission
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