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

The Accounting Day was aimed bridging the gap between the 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 Professor Ferina Marimuthu, Head of Department.

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 Professor Matthys Swanepoel, who underscored the importance of staying informed and adaptable in an ever-evolving financial landscape. “The accounting profession is changing rapidly, and adaptability is now as important as technical expertise,” she said.

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, Ziyanda Ngcece 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 the 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 one of the guest speakers from SAICA.

Doing the vote of thanks was Professor Marimuthu, who closed off by expressing gratitude to all the speakers, organisers, and students for making Accounting Day a success.

Pictured: Attendees in attendance at the annual Accounting Day.

Photography: DUT Multimedia.

Bongumenzi Khuzwayo