In the demanding world of professional accounting qualifications, completing the program is an achievement in itself. Doing so in record time, however, signals exceptional dedication and strategic focus.
Meet Masha Kassam, a 26-year-old graduate from ASF College of Accountancy, who recently achieved the remarkable feat of qualifying for the Certificate in Financial Accounting (CIFA) from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Malawi (ICAM) in a single sitting—the shortest possible timeframe. He completed the CIFA program in June 2023.
Masha at ICAM’s September 2023 Excellence Awards
Masha’s accomplishment is not just about speed but excellence. ICAM recognized his outstanding performance, awarding him the highest mark in Business Communication and the highest overall aggregate score in the CIFA program. His journey is a compelling story of motivation, meticulous planning, resilience, and a clear vision for the future.
What drives a young individual to pursue the rigorous path of accountancy? For Masha, the inspiration was deeply personal. “The desire to gain financial intelligence,” he shares, was his primary motivation. “I saw many people struggling financially despite earning good salaries.” This aspiration to master financial principles led him to pursue a professional qualification, with the CIFA as his starting point.
Completing the CIFA wasn’t just a step—it was a statement. Masha deliberately aimed for the fastest possible completion. “To build a strong reputation in the industry,” he explains, “it was essential to finish the CIFA program in the shortest possible time—which meant passing in one sitting.”
His ambitions extend far beyond this initial qualification. Masha views the CIFA as a stepping stone toward the Technician Diploma, which he believes “lays a solid foundation for the Chartered Malawi Qualification and strengthens financial intelligence.” His long-term goals are clear: to become a reputable accountant by delivering high-quality services and to achieve financial stability by owning a successful business.
Achieving this feat in record time didn’t happen by chance. Masha adopted a structured and disciplined study approach. Central to his routine was creating a strict study timetable and adhering to it meticulously. This wasn’t just a plan—it was a roadmap he followed rigorously, ensuring he met his study targets within the set timeframe.
Recognizing the importance of exam technique, he prioritized practicing past questions to refine his approach. His most effective strategy? “Completing the syllabus early and dedicating ample time to practice questions,” he says.
While relying on ICAM’s resources, Masha also supplemented his studies with classic textbooks like Frank Wood 1 and local materials such as Business Studies for Malawi Schools (Forms 1 and 2) by Visabwe, demonstrating his commitment to a thorough understanding. Effective time management was crucial—by treating his study schedule as a non-negotiable roadmap, he ensured every task was completed on time.
Though swift, Masha’s journey was not without obstacles. He candidly discusses facing financial constraints and emotional hurdles due to the misconception that ICAM qualifications are extremely difficult. Academically, grasping certain concepts—particularly in Business Knowledge (Law)—proved most challenging.
His response to these challenges showcased resourcefulness and determination. To alleviate financial pressure, Masha took on part-time tutoring for secondary school students, supplemented by support from his parents. He tackled academic and emotional struggles through sheer hard work and leaning on his support system.
“My college provided guidance beyond just tuition, helping me excel in my studies,” he acknowledges, highlighting ASF College of Accountancy’s role. He also credits his family for their financial and moral support.
ICAM, too, played a key role beyond administering exams—by sharing examiners’ reports and updates on study resources, they provided crucial insights into exam expectations.
Having navigated the CIFA program swiftly and successfully, Masha offers valuable advice to aspiring accountants. The CIFA program is achievable in the shortest possible time—even in one sitting,” he asserts confidently. He demystifies the content, explaining, “Most concepts build on secondary school material and can be covered within five months… Financial Mathematics combines secondary school computer and junior-level math… Business Communication draws heavily from English language skills…. Business Knowledge (Commerce) aligns with junior secondary business studies.
His core message? “Stay committed and dedicate time for this short period.” He encourages students, “The CIFA program is the easiest part of ICAM’s offerings—if approached with focus and a neutral mindset. Abandon the misconception that ICAM programs are inherently difficult.”
Looking at Malawi’s accounting profession, Masha advocates for a culture of mentorship and collaboration. “Aspiring accountants should share their success stories to motivate others and help peers gain practical knowledge,” he urges.
Masha Kassam’s achievement stands as a powerful testament to what structured planning, hard work, and a positive mindset can accomplish. His journey—from a motivated student to a record-breaking CIFA qualifier—serves as an inspiration for many pursuing professional qualifications in Malawi.
By Editor-in-Chief