Durban University of Technology, Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Department of Financial Accounting, hosted its annual Accounting Day on 1 August 2025, at Mansfield Hall, Ritson Campus. With the theme “Empowering Future Accountants,” the event brought together professionals, industry leaders, and accounting students from the faculty of Accounting and Informatics.

Accounting Day aimed to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice. “We want our students to leave here not only with a qualification but also with a strong professional network and the confidence to thrive in the workplace,” said Head of Department, Professor Ferina Marimuthu.

The event served as a valuable platform for students to connect with industry leaders while showcasing the diverse career opportunities available within the accounting profession. The programme, directed by Mr Thobelani Thango, commenced with a warm welcome from Prof. Marimuthu, who underscored the importance of staying informed and adaptable in an ever-evolving financial landscape. She highlighted that the accounting profession is changing rapidly, and adaptability is now as important as technical expertise.”

Delivering the keynote address was  Mr Mohamed Uraaz Essa, CA(SA), a seasoned Chartered Accountant with 17 years of post-articles experience in private practice. Renowned for his precision, strategic insight, and ethical excellence, his expertise spans taxation, audit, and corporate structuring. Backed by a strong reputation for integrity and long-standing client trust, Mr Essa shared valuable personal insights into thriving as an independent consultant. “Success in this field isn’t only about numbers it’s about discipline, trust, and the courage to think like an entrepreneur,” he told students.

Following the keynote, students in attendance benefited from presentations by representatives from prominent organisations, including the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA), the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), and others.

Following the presentations, a networking session took place, providing opportunities for students to engage directly with speakers, industry professionals, and peers. Third-year student expressed her excitement: “I walked away with so much clarity about my career path and even made connections with professionals who could mentor me in the future.”

The success of Accounting Day 2025 was made possible through the generous support and collaboration of the following partners:

• South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA)
• Association for Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
• South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA)
• Bonakude Consulting
• Impulse Accountants (Pty) Ltd
• Ukuphila Kwezwe Accountants
• Thornton Dibb Rossal Ubucule Chartered Accountants
• KZN Treasury

“Events like this remind us why partnerships between academia and industry are so important, they prepare students for the realities of the profession,” said Mr Mkhize, guest speakers from SAICA.

The “Empowering Future Accountants” initiative was a resounding success, creating a memorable day for everyone involved. The enthusiasm was clear during the networking session, as students eagerly connected with professionals, forging connections that will be crucial for their future careers.

The value of these interactions was highlighted by student feedback. Busisiwe Mzila called the event “an incredible experience” and praised the “insightful sessions and engaging representatives from various professional bodies and learning about their accreditations and opportunities for growth in the accounting field,” noting she “even picked up some valuable tips on how to boost my CV.” Similarly, Zanele Zuma, an Advanced Diploma in Accounting student, emphasised the importance of sharing this knowledge, stating, “The event was both informative and participative. I believe that it’s important for even our first-year students to have access to the information I received on Accounting Day.”

Msawenkosi Jwara, the Accounting Day coordinator, described the event as a vibrant forum where academic knowledge seamlessly merged with practical industry experience. He noted that Accounting Day 2025 has equipped our students with vital knowledge, confidence, and a professional network, preparing them to excel in the ever-evolving financial sector.

Pictured: Attendees in attendance at the annual Accounting Day.

Photography: DUT Multimedia.

Bongumenzi Khuzwayo