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Abstract
The accounting and finance profession is undergoing rapid transformation due to digital technologies like AI, blockchain, and data analytics, as well as agile methodologies. However, academic curricula have failed to keep pace, creating a critical skills gap. This study examines the disconnect between traditional accounting education and industry needs, identifying four key issues: outdated curricula focused on manual processes, resistance to digital teaching methods, faculty unpreparedness for emerging technologies, and weak industry collaboration. The consequences are severe. Graduates lack proficiency in tools like Power BI, Python, and ERP systems, reducing employability and forcing employers to invest heavily in training. Over time, the value of traditional degrees may decline as alternative credentials gain traction. To bridge this gap, the study proposes actionable solutions: modernizing curricula with digital tools and agile practices, adopting experiential learning methods, upskilling faculty through industry partnerships, and creating modular lifelong learning pathways. Examples from leading institutions demonstrate how integrating certifications and real-world projects can enhance graduate readiness. This research highlights the urgent need for accounting education to shift from theoretical compliance to technological agility, ensuring graduates are equipped for the digital economy. Keywords: accounting education, digital transformation, agile methodologies, curriculum reform, skills gap