Thuthuka Winter School Cultivates Accountants of the Future at UKZN

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The School of Commerce at UKZN hosted the annual Thuthuka Bursary Winter School Programme, a three-day initiative designed to support and empower accounting students who are beneficiaries of the Thuthuka Bursary Fund.

This is generally known as part of the programme’s “wrap-around” support.

The programme was spearheaded by Ms Hlengiwe Ndlela, Thuthuka Deputy Programme Manager and Auditing Senior Lecturer at UKZN, Dr Masibulele Phesa, Taxation Senior Lecturer, and Ms Nokwazi Mkhize a member the PSS (Professional Service Staff) personnel supporting the team. It brought together Accounting students from first-year to postgraduate level (Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) or Certificate in Theory of Accounting (CTA), aiming to foster academic growth, mental well-being, peer learning, mentorship and professional development.

The first day was dedicated to reflection, giving students a platform to speak openly about their experiences, challenges, and mental wellbeing. Students got to engage in honest conversations about how they have been coping with academic demands, the support received from lecturers and tutors, and the effectiveness of the academic support structures offered by both UKZN and the Thuthuka programme. 

Students were also encouraged to suggest improvements, a critical component of the programme, as it allows those directly affected by the learning environment to contribute meaningfully to its enhancement. 

The second day shifted focus to student wellness and psychological support. Guest speakers from the College of Law and Management Studies (CLMS) Student Support Services, including psychologist Ms Nonhlonipho Biyela, facilitated sessions on stress management and self-care. 

Biyela highlighted how to identify signs of unhealthy stress and shared techniques to manage it. “Stress is not always bad, there’s eustress - the kind that motivates you. But when stress starts affecting your sleep, appetite or relationships, it becomes a problem. That’s when you need to step back and care for your mind and body,” she said.

She also discussed behavioural patterns associated with chronic stress and guided students through practical exercises aimed at relieving anxiety and improving focus. 

A powerful peer-to-peer element featured PGDA students who shared their vacation work experiences with leading firms. One student, Ms Ayanda Xaba, an aspiring Chartered Accountant, spoke about her time at two of the big four accounting firms.

“Being able to shadow professionals while still at university gave me perspective. It connected the theory we learn with the reality of what the industry expects - and that clarity pushes you to work harder,” she said. 

Her testimony was echoed by Mr Mbusi Ndlovu CA(SA) Manager: Sector Growth and Strategic Affairs at the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and a Thuthuka alumni, who shared a heartfelt account of his journey to becoming a CA. He recalled falling seriously ill during his studies, a period that tested his resilience and commitment to his dream. 

“There were days I could not see the end of the tunnel, but I knew why I started, and I wasn’t going to stop. Your journey will have setbacks - but don’t let them define you,” he shared. 

Ms Sister Ntsele from SAICA’s Eastern Region, who also facilitates the broader SAICA Camp (for high school learners), addressed the students with a rousing motivational message. “You are not just studying a degree. You are future leaders who will impact industries, communities, and the world,” she said, reinforcing the long-term vision behind the programme. 

Her sentiments were affirmed by Professor Stephen Mutula, Dean and Head of the School of Commerce, who was also in attendance. 

“You are the ones that define our brand and the symbol of what we produce. So how ethically you do your work reflects the University. We urge you to be job creators, change the landscape when you step into industry,” he said. 

Professor Suren Pillay, Coordinator of the Accounting Programmes, provided practical insight into the life of an Accounting student, underscoring the importance of mental and physical health balance.

Ms Teboho Moephudi provided an overview of SAICA’s leadership and shared academic performance statistics, revealing an impressive average pass rate above 70% among Thuthuka students. “This programme is not just about individuals - it’s about collective success. That’s why we bring together students from all levels: to encourage knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and to elevate each other,” she said. 

She encouraged students to maintain this performance and continue striving for excellence.

On the final day, which coincided with Mandela Day, the students visited Ingane Yami Children’s Village, where they donated essential goods and spent time with the children. The outreach activity was followed by team-building exercises. These experiences were not only acts of service but a reminder that leadership includes compassion, and that giving back is a vital part of being a responsible professional.

Words and photographs: Ayanda Radebe