The Department of Accountancy at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) successfully hosted its 2026 Accountancy Conference on May 21 at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall.
Held under the theme “The Future is Accounted For: Leading in a Digital World,” the event brought together students, academics, and industry professionals to explore the changing role of technology, ethics, and leadership within the accounting profession.
Programme director Collins Mathadisa guided attendees through the engaging and insightful event, designed to prepare students for the future of the industry.
The conference officially commenced with an opening prayer by Pastor Dennis Sibanda, a lecturer in the Department of Accountancy.
Drawing from Proverbs 1:8, Pastor Sibanda encouraged students to remain focused and disciplined in their academic journeys, concluding with the powerful message that everyone in attendance was destined for success.
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences Professor Chengedzai Mafini delivered the welcoming address.
He energised the audience by engaging students and fostering institutional pride.
Mafini highlighted the importance of partnerships between universities and industry, emphasising that institutions of higher learning cannot thrive in isolation.
Addressing the students directly, he urged them to believe in their potential and the value of their institution, telling them not to let anyone say they were in the wrong place, and adding his well-known advice to never look down on themselves.
Further words of support came from Dr Mukondeleli Kanakana-Katumba, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning.
She praised the organisers for hosting the conference during the examination period, noting that the timing was highly relevant as students prepare for their futures in a rapidly changing world.
She encouraged attendees to make the conference meaningful by actively engaging with the knowledge shared by the speakers.
Dr Natasha Robbetze then introduced the guest speakers, setting the tone for a series of impactful presentations from industry leaders.
The first presenter of the day was Nqobani Mzizi from Professional Accountants South Africa. Mzizi expressed his appreciation for the conference theme and emphasised the importance of technology in the accounting profession, stating that modern professionals cannot succeed without technological knowledge.
He encouraged students to become changemakers in society and highlighted the need for future accountants to develop ethical leadership, governance literacy, communication skills, and technological competence. He concluded by sharing the essential pillars students should rely on for success, which include technical competence, ethical courage, leadership development, and strong communication abilities.
