06 June 2024
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Story Anthony Mthembu
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Photo Born2Shoot
Industry experts invited to speak at the two-day governance function.
The School of Accountancy at the University of the Free State (UFS), in collaboration with the Institute of Directors South Africa (IoDSA), hosted a two-day governance function at the UFS Bloemfontein campus. The event, themed “Building a Sustainable Future: Corporate Governance and Responsible Business Practices,“ aimed to engage with internal and external stakeholders and contribute to the advancement of corporate governance in South Africa.
The function, held on 21 and 22 May 2024, was divided into two parts. The first day featured a panel discussion with industry stakeholders, exclusively for the School of Accountancy’s stakeholders and IoDSA members. The second day, dubbed Business Acumen Day, was specifically tailored for students within the School of Accountancy.
Purpose of the engagement
According to Ané Church, a Lecturer in the School of Accountancy at the UFS, “An event like this gives us the opportunity to come together and engage on topics that are close to our hearts and our profession.” Industry professionals were invited to engage with staff and students throughout the function. Notable participants included Rob Rose, Author and Financial Journalist; Ansie Ramalho, Chairperson of the King Committee; Prof Parmi Natesan, CEO of the IoDSA and Adjunct Professor at the School of Accountancy; and Felicia Msiza, CEO of the Raubex Group.
Church emphasised the benefits for students attending the event, stating, ‘’It is not every day that our students get to engage with individuals of this stature, who have first-hand experience with the practical side of what our students study daily.’’ She highlighted that the students responded positively to this unique opportunity.
Insights from the engagement
The discussions focused on business ethics, sustainability, and governance. Church noted, ‘’This is very topical now, with various international accounting and ethics standards being amended to enhance the emphasis on these matters.” The attendance and interest from staff and students were high, leading Church to regard the event as a success.