Accounting Students Interact with Top Learners at SAICA Winter Camp

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Two BCom Accounting students represented UKZN’s School of Commerce and the African Women Chartered Accountants (AWCA) Student Chapter at the Southern African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Winter Camp. 

They were Ms Sinenhlanhla Ngema (third year) and Ms Resheen Ramsamy (second year). 

Hosted at the Anton Lembede Mathematics, Science and Technology Academy in La Mercy, the camp was attended by more than 400 top mathematics learners from 12 KwaZulu-Natal districts. 

Ms Sister Ntsele, SAICA Manager responsible for engagements with the high school communities, explained that the aim of the Winter Camp was to provide academic support programmes for Grade 12 learners. “These programmes have been very helpful in improving the academic performance of learners and in preparing them for careers in the high-demand accounting profession.”

Ngema is the Chairperson of UKZN’s AWCA while Ramsamy is the Deputy Chairperson of the Student Chapter. The visit to the SAICA Winter Camp formed part of their community engagement strategy. 

Addressing the learners, Ngema spoke about the mission and history of AWCA, highlighting its role in empowering African women in accounting. She also reflected on her journey from high school to becoming a third-year accounting student and how student societies such as the AWCA created meaningful opportunities not only to grow but to occupy big spaces at a young age. “Attending the camp was more than just a visit, it was a chance for me to inspire, inform and remind learners that their dreams are possible,” she said. 

Ramsamy shared insights into the realities of university life and how involvement in societies helps build both soft skills and confidence. “Student clubs and societies bridge the gap between the classroom and the corporate world,” she said. 

The duo was accompanied by Ms Hazel Langa, Public Relations Manager in the College of Law and Management Studies, who addressed applications-related queries and added a valuable institutional perspective, sharing information about the College’s offerings and providing words of encouragement rooted in wisdom and experience. 

Langa explained: “Participating in projects such as the SAICA Winter Camp is strategic to the College as such initiatives contribute to the meeting of enrolment targets. Through these initiatives we also assist in transforming the accounting profession and addressing the critical skills shortage in South Africa.” 

The high school learners were visibly inspired with many seeking guidance on academic paths, bursaries and University applications. 

The AWCA student chapter at UKZN Westville continues to be a powerful force in shaping confident, capable and career-ready African women in accounting. 

•    The SAICA Winter Camp was sponsored by the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET).

Words: NdabaOnline

Photograph: Supplied