SAICA AWARDS CEREMONY 2010

Top performing students for 2009 and 2010 were honoured at an awards ceremony hosted by the School of Accounting, in partnership with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).

The Chair of the Eastern Region of SAICA, Mr Mdu Zakwe, told students that there are many challenges ahead of them and that there is a shortage of chartered accountants in South Africa. He added that South Africa needs skills and that is why it is important for universities to stay relevant and to offer courses that challenge students.

Mr Zakwe noted that many UKZN graduates are working in Johannesburg making a difference in the country’s economy. He shared his experiences of studying at the University and how he always made sure he stayed ahead and worked hard.

Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies, Professor Lesley Stainbank cited a few stories to show that dedication, personal sacrifice, early mornings and late evenings contribute towards success.

Three students, Jacques van Ravesteyn, Saadiya Adam, and Akash Dowra were in the top 10 in the Public Practice Examinations set by the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors.  First year students, Lashlen Ramasrai, Robert Pool, Meleron Ramsamy were also awarded prizes. The prize for the top student in first year went to Ugendran Odayar.

In second year the overall top student award was won by Nadia Latiff and the other prize for second year went to Rosemary O’Neill.

The top achievers for third year were Dashen Naidoo, Nabilah Soobedaar, Laura Atkinson, Wesley Koen and Ruan Gertenbach. The overall achiever for third year was Heather Snyman.

author email : shabangus@ukzn.ac.za