UKZN Partners with SAICA to Recognise Academic Excellence

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The UKZN School of Commerce, in collaboration with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Eastern Region, hosted its annual student awards ceremony on Thursday, 22 May 2025, on the Westville campus.

The event, which recognised academic excellence and professional commitment among students, was attended by senior University officials, SAICA representatives, parents, students and members of the Accounting profession.

The Acting Dean and Head of the School of Commerce, Professor Stephen Mutula, highlighted the significance of the awards in promoting academic and professional excellence. ‘These awards are important to the continued success of our partnership. They play a key role in maintaining high professional standards and we truly applaud SAICA for their ongoing support,’ he said.

‘SAICA continues to be a strategic partner, not only in providing professional and academic expertise, but also in supporting initiatives for students through funding. We acknowledge and value this specific support,’ he added.

Mutula emphasised that the awards provide students with opportunities to gain insights into professional qualifications and also respond to the University goal of creating excellent student experiences. ‘We appreciate the support SAICA has given us. It is this support that contributes to excellence in teaching, research and the student experience. Together, we are shaping the future of our students,’ he said.

Regarding the University’s reorganisation process, Mutula noted the merging of the School of Accounting, Economics and Finance with the School of Management, Information Technology and Governance to form the School of Commerce. The result is a combined academic staff complement of approximately 130 members. ‘In terms of student numbers, we now cater to about 7 000 students. This brings significant opportunities, but also presents certain challenges,’ he said. He congratulated the recipients and extended his gratitude to all partners involved.

The co-ordinator of Accounting Programmes in the School of Commerce, Professor Suren Pillay, spoke about the vital role of ethics in the profession. ‘Ethics is a strong foundation in our discipline. Even if one achieves great results, it means little without ethical conduct and recognition earned through integrity,’ he said.

Pillay commended students for their commitment and acknowledged the evolving challenges in the profession, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence and the impact it has had on job availability.

SAICA Council President, Mr Zakhele Dlamini, encouraged students to uphold ethical standards and persevere. ‘We are here to promote excellence and doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. That attitude will carry you far. Stay the course, it’s not easy, but it is certainly achievable,’ he advised.

Among those honoured was academic trainee Mr Siphesihle Ngcobo, who received an award for successful completion of the Initial Assessment of Competence in 2025. ‘I am very excited to be honoured with this award. It means a lot,’ he said.

Ms Tahiya Essa, the recipient of multiple awards of excellence and the top third-year student of 2024, expressed her joy and surprise. ‘This was completely unexpected. It feels so good to see that hard work pays off in the end. I’m grateful to my parents, my family and UKZN. They’ve been so supportive, it’s amazing,’ she said.

The award for Best Overall Student went to Mr Akhii Harrydhasret, who also received multiple honours including the Subash Memorial Trophy. ‘I’m grateful to have had such a strong academic environment at UKZN. It has been a pillar of support, even when I faced challenges. The lecturers are amazing and always ready to help,’ he said.

Harrydhasret also expressed appreciation for his family, particularly his brother. ‘I used to study in the lounge and never slacked off. My brother gave me the space I needed. While the goal was mine, I couldn’t have done it without my family who stood by me and took care of me,’ he added.

Words: NdabaOnline

Photographs: Dime Creative Studios