The Durban University of Technology (DUT) proudly represented South Africa’s accounting education sector at the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA 2025), held in Kigali, Rwanda, from 6 to 9 May 2025. Professor Ferina Marimuthu, Head of Department of Financial Accounting in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, flew the DUT flag high at this prestigious gathering of accounting professionals and thought leaders from across the globe, showcasing DUT’s cutting-edge approach to financial education and its commitment to shaping future-ready accountants. Notably, Professor Marimuthu was specifically invited to contribute her expertise to discussions on the accounting education aspect of the profession, collaborating with leaders from industry, various African professional bodies and the International Federation of Accountants.
ACOA 2025 hosted more than 2000 delegates from 65 countries, all united under the theme: “Creating Value for Africa.” The congress focused on driving sustainable development, ethical leadership and innovation within the accounting profession across the continent, addressing critical challenges and opportunities facing African economies..
“It was an absolute honour to represent DUT at ACOA 2025,” said Prof Marimuthu. “The experience was both humbling and empowering. Engaging with global leaders and colleagues from across Africa highlighted just how essential education is to the future of our profession, especially in equipping professionals with the skills needed to navigate a rapidly evolving global landscape.”
A significant highlight for Professor Marimuthu was participating in the inaugural Forum to Advance Women in Accountancy in Africa, a groundbreaking platform hosted by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA). This historic event brought together women leaders, young professionals and stakeholders to address gender equity in the accounting profession, laying the groundwork for tangible action and policy recommendations.
“It was inspiring to see women’s voices front and centre,” shared Professor Marimuthu. “We discussed real strategies to support women in their careers, increase visibility and access and build a more inclusive profession across Africa, emphasising the economic and social imperative of empowering women in leadership roles.” Furthermore, in light of PAFA’s powerful call to action, Professor Marimuthu expressed her keen anticipation of contributing significantly to the development and advancement of Women in Accounting within South Africa, leveraging the insights and connections gained from this landmark forum.
Professor Marimuthu also took to the main stage as a panel speaker for the session titled “Unlocking Innovation: Equipping Accountants with Intrapreneurial Skills to Drive Business Success.” Alongside fellow speakers Evelyn Temitope Isioye and Pascale GUEI-ECARE, she explored how accountants can move beyond traditional roles to become strategic innovators and leaders within their organisations, contributing directly to business growth and resilience.
Beyond the panel sessions, Professor Marimuthu connected with influential delegates from the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), African Association of Accountants General (AAAG), the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria and the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana. These engagements opened doors to potential partnerships in research, student development and professional exchange, signifying DUT’s proactive role in promoting international collaboration and knowledge sharing.
She also extended her gratitude to PAFA CEO Alta Prinsloo and Prem Govender, Chair of the SAIPA Board and newly elected PAFA Vice-President, for their leadership and dedication to advancing the profession across Africa. A heartfelt thank you was also shared with the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) and PAFA for hosting what she described as a “world-class, impactful event, setting a new benchmark for professional congresses on the continent.”
Professor Marimuthu’s participation in ACOA 2025 reinforced DUT’s commitment to excellence, transformation and global engagement in higher education. Through its focus on creativity and innovation, DUT continues to shape adaptive graduates who transform society, ensuring they are well-prepared to lead and innovate in the global accounting arena.
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Pictured: Professor Ferina Marimuthu, Head of Department of Financial Accounting in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics.
Alan Khan
