The Department of Financial Accounting recently held their prestigious annual student awards ceremony on 15 March 2024, hosted at the Capital Zimbali and it was a day filled with celebration, recognition, and inspiration. The event brought together students, departmental staff members, and industry professionals to honour outstanding achievements and contributions within the realm of financial accounting. The Department of Financial Accounting Awards Ceremony 2024 was not only a celebration of past accomplishments but also a testament to the bright future ahead for all those involved in the dynamic field of financial accounting.
In attendance was the Head of Department: Professor Ferina Marimuthu, guest speakers: Nhlanhla Mnguni: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bull Service Group (BSG), Thobeka Mbatha: Audit Manager from Thornton Dibb Rossal Ubucule Chartered Accountants and registered Auditors (TDRU Incorporated), lecturers from the department of Financial Accounting, Dr Haruna Maama, Dr Anchal Ramsarghey, Dr Jean Mvunabandi, Celumusa Chonco, Brian Ngiba, Sipho Mkhwanazi, Adele Robinson, Nolwando Mgilane, Sharanam Abbana, Thobelani Thango, and Mndeni Mthembu.
The day commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr Anchal Ramsarghey, setting the tone for a day dedicated to acknowledging excellence and hard work. Dr Ramsarghey’s words resonated with the audience, emphasising the importance of diligence, passion, and continuous pursuit of knowledge in the field of financial accounting.
Following the welcome address, the audience was treated to a captivating keynote address delivered by Nhlanhla Mnguni, an esteemed Associate General Accountant (AGA). Mnguni shared invaluable insights gleaned from his extensive experience in the industry, offering invaluable advice to aspiring accountants and highlighting the significance of integrity and professionalism in the profession. He closed of his speech by congratulating the students who were going to be awarded.
“I encourage each and every one of you here to reflect on your strengths and seize every opportunity provided by the department. Pursue more, engage with the guest speakers, and congratulations on your achievements! Your hard work has brought you here, so keep going strong,” said Mnguni.
The highlight of the day was the awards ceremony, where exceptional individuals and groups were recognised for their outstanding achievements. Top achievers were honoured for their academic excellence, demonstrating exceptional proficiency and dedication in their studies. Additionally, awards were presented for exemplary project presentations, showcasing innovative solutions and critical thinking skills.
One of the most heartening moments of the ceremony was the presentation of staff awards, which recognised emerging staff researchers in the department for their contributions to the department. These awards underscored the commitment of the staff members to academic excellence and their pivotal role in shaping the future of financial accounting.
The ceremony concluded on a high note with another inspiring keynote address, delivered by Thobeka Mbatha, whose words resonated with both students and staff members alike. Mbatha’s address served as a reminder of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and excellence in financial accounting.
The Department of Financial Accounting also celebrated the outstanding achievement of Sharanam Abbana, who has been honoured with the top emerging researcher award in the department. This was followed by Nolwando Mgilane and Smangele Nzama who had tied for the runner-up emerging researcher position. The department revealed that these achievements highlighted the dedication and innovation of the three researchers and of their promising futures in the academic field.
When asked on how he felt after being named the top emerging researcher awardee, Abbana said excitedly that being named the top emerging research awardee for the 2023 academic year filled him with immense gratitude and honour. “It was a pleasant surprise to be recognised, and it is evidence of our research team’s commitment, diligence, and inventiveness,” he said.
Abbana further went on to say that he has always been passionate about pushing limits, discovering new areas of study, and making significant contributions to the accounting discipline and said that his sincere gratitude goes out to his supervisors, namely Prof Ferina Marimuthu and Dr Haruna Maama, colleagues, mentors, and friends who have helped him along the way.
‘’I would like to congratulate myself for being recognised as the second top emerging researcher for the year 2023 in our department. It is truly a remarkable achievement, especially considering the challenges I have faced during that time. My dedication and hard work have clearly paid off, and it’s wonderful to see my efforts being acknowledged. My supervisors, Dr H Maama and Prof F Marimuthu, have played a significant role in my success. Having supportive mentors who push you to be the best version of yourself is invaluable. As I continue to pursue my research and academic endeavours, I will stay focused and continue striving for excellence. Through dedication, and the support of my supervisors, there is no doubt that I will achieve even greater heights in the future,’’ said Mgilane who was named the runner-up emerging researcher.
As the day drew to a close, attendees left Capital Zimbali with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation, inspired by the achievements celebrated and the wisdom shared throughout the event.
Pictured: Attendees at the Financial Accounting Awards Ceremony 2024.
Siphokazi Dlamini
