History was created recently at the case study exam of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka), after Charith Ranganath Gunathilaka of Colombo became the first ever in the history of the exam to score an impressive 93 marks out of 100.
A former student of Royal College Colombo, Gunathilaka tributes his diverse knowledge gained in accounts, tax, financial management, risk management and on International Financial Reporting Standards for his exam success at the 2012 case study exam of CA Sri Lanka, which is considered as the final test towards becoming a fully qualified globally recognized chartered accountant.
Currently functioning as a senior consultant at KPMG’s risk advisory division, Gunathilaka who is also a graduate of the Sri Jayawardenapura University said his primary ambition was always to be a chartered accountant because he was ‘always keen on numbers’.
When asked why he chose chartered accountancy amidst the general perception that the course and exams were very tough, Gunathilaka said, “Yes, it is difficult and lot of work is required for the programme but with the right amount of dedication and commitment, anyone can successfully complete the course and the return is very good,” he said.
Gunathilaka also noted that the practical exposure he gained while studying the globally recognized chartered accountancy course, helped him in his exam.
Speaking on his exam success, an elated Gunathilaka said, “I did not expect to be the record breaker at the case study exam, but I think the diverse knowledge I have gained over a period of years, led to my success at the case study exam.”
“My line of thinking is always different. I don’t stick to conventional methods and I analysed the case given to me at the exam differently, I think that was also reason for my success,” he added.
He has already got several offers from companies abroad, but Gunathilaka is yet to decide on where to join.
He said his ultimate goal is to contribute to the economic development of the country and thereby help built Sri Lanka. “Even if I go abroad for an overseas work assignment that will be only for a short period to gain more experience work wise. But my ultimate goal is to serve my country, help contribute to the economy and also assist in the upliftment of the industry,” he said.
The case study exam is part of the globally recognized CA Sri Lanka chartered accountancy course.
Chartered accountants play a major role in most of the large companies in Sri Lanka with approximately 70 percent from the top 50 companies listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange having at least one CA Sri Lanka member in their Board.
From the 4300 CA Sri Lanka members, 30 percent is based overseas employed in various continents covering Australia, South Asia, South East Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe and the Americas.
