PUNE: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) on Friday launched ‘e-Pathshala’, an online platform to help people aspiring to become Chartered Accountants (CA) but are unable to seek professional coaching due to financial barriers. 

“The number of students interested in becoming CAs has increased drastically in the last few years. However, not all students can afford the exorbitant fees of the coaching classes required for the same. We aim to help these students,” said CA Nandkishor Hegde.

Hegde is also a member of the ICAI Central Committee.

The e-Paathshala initiative would provide study material and guidance to the economically weaker students in rural areas.

Through e-Pathshala, the students will be trained for four to six months, through 1,064 branches across the country,” Hegde added.

“The course for CA can be done by spending less money. Students from economically weaker families are also interested in pursuing this career option. Through e-Pathshala, these students will get an equal chance at competing with the students seeking coaching.”

“Many CAs work in the industry and have latest knowledge of the new practices, changes and initiatives. Hence, they can help the students through e-Pathshala in studies and to perform better in the examination,” CA Rakesh Alasi added.