UWC’s Accounting Department Collaborates with Leading Accounting Institution to Empower Students
The programme is being piloted in UWC’s EMS Faculty through the Department of Accounting. This groundbreaking initiative aims to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive as young professionals in today’s competitive business landscape. With the job market continually evolving, it has become increasingly important to find ways to stand out to potential employers.
This programme is designed to support accounting students to do just that, equipping them with real world skills and experience that will differentiate them in the market. Through a blend of academic learning and practical work experience, participants will engage in real-life business tasks and challenges, gaining invaluable insights and sharpening their acumen as budding accounting professionals.
This 15-week programme runs concurrently with the third year of the B.Com (Financial Accounting) degree, culminating in the prestigious Accounting Technician designation for successful participants.
“The challenge of attaining work experience post-university is one that abounds for South African youth. Programmes like this are tackling this issue head-on, enabling upcoming accounting talent to not only emerge from university with theoretical knowledge, but with practical experience of how to apply this to add value to their clients. The receiving of the Accounting Technician (SA) designation upon completion is also paramount. The SAIPA Work Integrated Learning Programme ensures students leave university with both in their arsenal,” says Professor Rashied Small, executive of the Centre of Future Excellence at the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA).
Students can look forward to a rigorous learning experience complete with real-life practical accounting simulations to prepare them for the working world. Mentorship and coaching from seasoned accountancy professionals will also not only bolster their academic progress and personal and professional development, but will equally be foundational in growing their professional network.
The support from SAIPA for their professional development can also expand beyond the programme, with opportunities to be connected with SAIPA Accredited Training Centres upon graduation, which can provide a continuous stepping stone for career success.
“SAIPA’s collaboration with UWC is driven by a clear objective: to enhance the employability skills of students and align these to our graduate attributes,” says Bonita Raymond, Head of Accounting at the university.
The SAIPA Work Integrated Learning Programme runs for the period 16 April to October 2024. Limited admissions are available, with sessions held in-person on the UWC premises.
For more information and to apply, interested students can contact Mr. Azmatullah Latief on [email protected] or visit www.saipa.co.za. Join SAIPA and UWC on a transformative journey towards career readiness, professional advancement, and community transformation.
UWC’s Department of Management & Entrepreneurship Partners with Top Accounting Institution for Professionals to Empower Students
To foster entrepreneurial excellence among students, the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) has partnered with The University of Western Cape (UWC) to introduce the SAIPA Business Advisory Technician – Entrepreneurship Integrated Programme.
The innovative programme aims to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive as entrepreneurs in today’s competitive business landscape. Through a blend of academic learning and practical work experience, participants will engage in real-life business tasks and challenges, gaining invaluable insights into the complexities of the business world.
“The SAIPA Business Advisory Technician – Entrepreneurship Integrated Programme is designed to empower students to become agile and innovative entrepreneurs,” says Mrs Lisle Svenson, lecturer in the Department of Management & Entrepreneurship and the Small Business Clinic in the Economic and Management Sciences Faculty.
“By providing mentorship from seasoned business advisors and owners, as well as a supportive learning environment, we aim to prepare students for success in entrepreneurship.” says Dr Ntandoyenkosi Sibindi, Head of the Department of Management & Entrepreneurship at UWC.
The programme, open to 2nd and 3rd-year commerce students, covers various topics essential for entrepreneurs, including business planning, marketing, finance, accounting and legal compliance. Participants will undergo intensive training in a block-week format, culminating in the prestigious Business Advisory Technician designation for successful graduates.
One of the key highlights of the programme is its emphasis on real-world application. Through case studies, simulations, and assignments, students will gain practical experience directly relevant to the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Additionally, the programme fosters a supportive learning environment where participants can share ideas, network with each other, and learn from experienced business owners.
SAIPA COMMENT
Students participating in the programme can look forward to a host of benefits, including engaging in real-life practical business learnings, receiving continuous feedback and support, and graduating with both a degree and the SAIPA Business Advisory Technician designation.
Furthermore, the programme offers numerous career opportunities, including increased employability, networking opportunities, and the potential to become their own boss.
The SAIPA Business Advisory Technician – Entrepreneurship Integrated Programme commenced on April 16, 2024, and will run until December 15, 2024. Limited admissions are available, with sessions in a hybrid learning format featuring online meetings and limited engagements on the UWC premises.
For more information and to apply, interested students can contact Lesego Mokwena at [email protected] or visit www.saipa.co.za. Join SAIPA and UWC on a transformative journey towards career readiness, professional advancement, and community transformation.