Introduction to Corporate Governance

Corporate scandals such as Enron, WorldCom and in South Africa, Regal Bank and Leisurenet, set against the milieu of the release of the King III Report on Corporate Governance in March 2010, has focused world attention on corporate governance, emphasising its critical role in business sustainability and economic growth.

Companies today face the challenges of not only economic survival, of implementing appropriate control measures, managing business risk and planning for long-term sustainability, all elements of corporate governance, but also challenges such as dealing with HIV-Aids, BEE, Ethics, African values, environmental and social responsibility and sustainability, all elements of corporate citizenship. Intra-African trade is also increasing and thus the South African manager not only needs a sound knowledge of corporate governance practices and issues in South Africa, but also an overview of corporate governance practices in other African countries as well as internationally.

What does this course offer?

The purpose of the learning is to equip learners with the competencies (knowledge, value and skills) to interpret the importance of corporate governance in the contemporary business environment and in Africa. Qualifying learners will be able to contribute to business and society through an increased awareness of the importance of corporate governance, its link to corporate citizenship and its role in responsible business practices that lead to environmental, economical and social sustainability that would benefit society in general.

Credits

Study skills level 6, 12 credits

Who should register?

This course is aimed at managers and company secretaries who need exposure to corporate governance and corporate citizenship.
Admission requirements

Learners must:

Be in possession of a NQF level 4 certificate or equivalent
Have at least three years working experience.

What does it focus on?

Content of the syllabus:

Introduction to corporate governance and corporate citizenship in South Africa and Africa
Corporate governance and corporate citizenship in relation to specific issues in South Africa and Africa
Corporate governance challenges of the 21 century
The legal and regulatory environment affecting corporate governance in South Africa and Africa
The framework of accountability in companies and other organisations in South Africa and Africa
Sustainability and the triple bottom line
Sustainability and triple bottom line reporting in South Africa and Africa
King III is also discussed in detail as well as the relevant corporate governance provisions in the new Companies Act 71 of 2008. Board meetings, shareholders’ meetings and the role of directors are focused on.

Formal tuition

The duration of this programme is 6 months
Assessment will be done by means of assignments completed during the course and a formal two-hour examination at the end of the 6 month period.
On successful completion students will receive a certificate from UNISA.

Registration, commencing dates and fees

Course in Introduction to Corporate Governance (Qualification code: 71978):
First semester: 26 Jan (registration takes place from 1 Dec until 31 Jan)
Second semester: 21 Jul (registration takes place from 26 Jun until 17 Jul)