Lecturer in the Department of Financial Accounting within the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Sharanam Abbana (29) was the first to graduate with his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting at the prestigious during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation Ceremony which took place at the Olive Convention Centre on Monday, 18 May 2026.
Dr Abbana proudly lectures at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels and also supervises research students. Adding to his academic credentials, he is also a Professional Accountant (SA) and Tax Specialist (SA). His journey at DUT has been both transformative and rewarding which saw him begin as a first-year Accounting student and progressing through each stage of his academic journey, ultimately pursuing and completing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting.
“I was part of the inaugural PhD cohort within the Department of Financial Accounting and the first to graduate with this qualification, marking a significant milestone for the department,” he said jubilantly.
His family was also extremely proud and supportive, with their encouragement playing an important role in helping him stay motivated throughout the journey.Along the way, Dr Abbana became actively involved in teaching and learning, research, and student development, which has significantly enriched his experience and shaped his growth as an academic. Having recently walked the same path, he is able to relate closely to students, understanding both the pressures they face and the discipline required to succeed.
“Graduating with a PhD is both humbling and fulfilling. It represents years of discipline, resilience, and perseverance. Without no study leave, the journey was challenging, but it has shaped me both academically and personally, reinforcing the importance of consistency and purpose,” he shared.
Dr Abbana said that he is also deeply grateful to his supervisor, Professor Ferina Marimuthu, and co-supervisor, Prof Haruna Maama, who have contributed significantly to his academic journey. They had lectured him at undergraduate level and went on to supervise him through both his Master’s and PhD studies.
“Their guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support have been instrumental in reaching this milestone, and I am truly appreciative of the role they have played in my development,” he relayed.
Sharing her congratulatory message was Prof Marimuthu, saying he is the very first to graduate with this prestigious qualification from the DUT Department of Financial Accounting.
“Achieving this level of academic mastery is nothing short of extraordinary. Your dedication and brilliance have set a high benchmark for all who follow. The future of the accounting profession is in capable hands. Congratulations, Dr Abbana, I cannot wait to see the impact you will make in the world of academia and beyond,” she shared jubilantly.
Sharing on his thesis, Dr Abbana shared that his study investigates the impact of Integrated Reporting (IR) quality on firm valuation in Sub-Saharan Africa, with particular focus on the moderating roles of organisational culture and audit quality.
He indicated that his study contributes by providing evidence from an emerging market context and offers practical insights for strengthening reporting practices and enhancing capital market outcomes.
For Dr Abbana, espousing DUT’s values and principles which is an integral part of him.
“I associate with respect, integrity, accountability, and excellence, which underpin my approach to academic work and student engagement. The principle of ubuntu, emphasising humanity and collective growth, shapes how I support students in a manner that is both student centred and academically focused,” he emphasised.
However, Dr Abbana made mention that balancing academic research with professional and lecturing responsibilities was a significant challenge. “It required considerable sacrifice, long hours, and a high level of discipline to manage competing demands effectively,” he added.
Maintaining consistency during demanding periods was critical in navigating the pressures and ultimately completing the journey,” he shared.
He chose accounting because of its relevance, versatility, and impact in both the corporate and public sectors. From as early as high school, it came naturally to him, and over time it became clear that it was more than just a subject. It was a path aligned with his strengths and interests. “It provides a strong foundation for decision-making and value creation,” added Dr Abbana.
His aim is to focus on advancing his research profile through publishing and pursuing postdoctoral research, while continuing to contribute to both the academic and professional community.
He further highlighted that he is passionate about bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world practice, and he actively works towards developing students into industry-ready professionals.
“My goal is to continue growing as an academic and become an NRF-rated researcher, while also contributing to industry through practical insights, leadership development, and community initiatives. I am equally committed to developing futureaccountants who can exceed my own standards, while supporting underprivileged students in professionalising themselves and accessing meaningful opportunities. I also look forward to mentoring Master’s and PhD students, contributing to the development of future scholars and professionals,” he indicated proudly.
His advice to first-year students is to stay consistent, be disciplined, and don’t be discouraged by challenges. “Show up every day, even on the hard days. Dream big. Your potential is far greater than you think,” he said.
Pictured: Dr Sharanam Abbana
Waheeda Peters
