The Department of Auditing and Taxation, in collaboration with the DVC: Research, Innovation, and Engagement (RIE) Community Engagement Office, and the Centre for Social Entrepreneurs, recently hosted a community engagement event at the serene Botanical Gardens. The event aimed to foster meaningful connections between academia and the local community, emphasising the practical application of knowledge for social impact.

In attendance was  Solomon Nyamurima: Manager, Centre for social entrepreneurs, Phumzile Xulu: Community engagement practitioner: DVC:RIE, Professor Olive Stumke: Head of Department: Auditing and Taxation, Mr Brian Jiyane: Master’s student in the Auditing and Taxation department, lecturers in the Auditing and Taxation department: Akira Singh, Mr Divakaran Reddy, Dharmesh Bhagwan Chanthal Ronald, Mary Mutanda, David Greenham, Rajesh Ramlall, Sizwe Ntuli, Nompumelelo Sithebe, Dr Asogan Moodley, Mr Adewumi Ayodeji and Auditing and Taxation students; Nompilo Mthembu and Yashtheel Punwasi.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from Nyamurima. In his opening remarks, he underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in driving social change. He then introduced Ms Xulu, a dedicated Community Engagement Practitioner, who further elaborated on the goals of the event and the importance of community involvement in academic initiatives.

Akira Singh, representing the Department of Auditing and Taxation, took to the stage to outline the department’s role in the event. She highlighted the department’s commitment to utilising their expertise in auditing and taxation to address real-world challenges faced by the community. This introduction set the tone for a series of insightful presentations.

Following Singh’s introduction, Professor Stumke, a prominent figure in the department, shared her vision for integrating academic research with community needs. Her presentation delved into the practical applications of auditing and taxation principles in supporting local businesses and non-profits.

The event continued with a series of presentations by lecturers and their postgraduate students. Each presentation demonstrated the innovative ways in which academic research could be leveraged to benefit the community. From tax advisory services for small businesses to audits designed to improve the efficiency of local organisations, the presentations showcased the tangible impact that academic expertise can have on society.

The event was not only an opportunity for knowledge sharing but also a platform for building lasting partnerships between the university and the community. The collaborative spirit that permeated the event underscored the importance of aligning academic pursuits with societal needs, ensuring that the university’s work contributes to the betterment of the community it serves.

As the event ended, participants expressed their appreciation for the insightful presentations and the opportunity to engage directly with the university’s experts. The Department of Auditing and Taxation, along with its partners, reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing community engagement and the continuous pursuit of impactful research and collaboration.

Pictured: Auditing and Taxation lecturer, Miss Akira Singh, took to the stage to outline the Department of Auditing and Taxation’s role in the event.

Siphokazi Dlamini