The University of Venda’s Department of Accountancy recently hosted the official launch of the South African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) Student Chapter. The event brought together academic staff, students, media representatives and the SAIGA delegation to celebrate a new partnership aimed at preparing students for careers in public sector auditing and governance. The programme included addresses from university leadership and SAIGA representatives, highlighting opportunities for students to engage with the professional body and contribute to ethical leadership in South Africa’s public sector.
Ms Mbali Buthelezi, SAIGA CEO
Ms Mbali Buthelezi addressed students on the importance of ethical leadership and accountability in strengthening South Africa’s public sector. She explained that SAIGA distinguishes itself from other professional bodies by focusing specifically on governance, auditing and accountability within government institutions. Ms Buthelezi encouraged students to reflect carefully on their career paths and consider how they can contribute to public service. She emphasised that professionals in this field play a crucial role in protecting public resources, challenging unethical practices and ensuring that government decisions benefit communities.
Prof Freddy Munzhelele, Head of Department of Accountancy
Speaking on behalf of the Office of the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management, Commerce and Law (FMCL), Prof Freddy Munzhelele emphasised that the university’s growth is driven by its students and stakeholders who contribute to teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement.
He highlighted the expansion of the Department of Accountancy through increased enrolment, growing partnerships with professional bodies and preparations for SAICA accreditation of the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting, while encouraging students to participate actively in the student chapter for networking and professional development.
He noted that the Department of Accountancy is the largest in the faculty and stressed the importance of strengthening collaboration with professional bodies such as SAIGA through research partnerships, academic exchanges, guest lectures and professional development initiatives that benefit both students and the public sector.
Mrs Caroline Tshikhovhokhovho, Senior Lecturer & Subject Head – Taxation
Mrs Caroline Tshikhovhokhovho noted that the Department of Accountancy embarked on a strategic journey to strengthen its programmes through partnerships with professional bod-ies, which resulted in accreditation with SAIGA in 2023. According to her, the accreditation confirms that the department’s curriculum is relevant and aligned with industry needs, partic-ularly within the public sector, and the student chapter will help prepare future professionals committed to accountability and ethical leadership.
Mr Lucas Mabona, from SAIGA’s Officer for Strategic Partnership and Growth
Mr Lucas Mabona outlined the organisation’s mandate to expand its professional footprint and strengthen the pipeline for the Registered Government Auditor (RGA) designation. He explained that SAIGA collaborates with universities such as the University of Venda to encour-age students to pursue careers in public sector auditing and financial management. Through partnerships with institutions including the Auditor-General, National Treasury and accredited training offices, SAIGA offers graduates a three-year competency-based traineeship that com-bines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to produce ethically grounded profes-sionals.
Mr Kalushi Sekgoka, from SAIGA’s Officer of Marketing and Membership
Mr Kalushi Sekgoka emphasised the value of SAIGA membership for students and young pro-fessionals. He described students as future leaders who will advance ethical standards and professionalism in public sector auditing. Mr Sekgoka explained the different membership cat-egories available, affiliate, student, graduate and RGA membership. He highlighted the benefits of joining the organisation, including networking opportunities, mentorship, career development support and access to traineeship opportunities.
Ms Sinazo Mondo, representing SAIGA’s Media and Administration Unit, SAICA
Ms Sinazo Mondo guided students through the process of registering for membership and participating in the newly established student chapter. She explained that students can com-plete registration by scanning the provided QR code and submitting documents such as iden-tification, a curriculum vitae and their academic qualifications. She also encouraged students to contribute articles to SAIGA’s publication Auditing SA, particularly in the “Student Corner”, where they can share insights on auditing, accounting, finance and current affairs while build-ing their professional profiles.
Mr Thilivhali Ramawa, Senior Lecturer – Auditing
Mr Thilivhali Ramawa expressed appreciation to SAIGA for travelling to the University of Venda. He noted that the visit reassured students that meaningful professional opportunities are ac-cessible at the university and encouraged them to engage with SAIGA representatives and take advantage of the partnership as they prepare for future careers in auditing and public sector governance.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
