The College of Accounting Sciences (CAS) at Unisa commissioned an Employer Survey in 2024 to evaluate industry perceptions of its Accounting Sciences' graduates. The findings were overwhelmingly positive, with Unisa students performing consistently well across various competencies, often surpassing their counterparts from other institutions.
CAS students engaging with various exhibitors to explore employment and career development opportunities
The primary aim of the survey was to identify key strengths and areas for development, allowing the college to refine its academic offerings in line with the evolving expectations of the accounting profession. In response, the career exhibition was conceptualised as a direct intervention to connect students with the industry and offer insights into the qualities employers most value.
In a strategic move to further boost graduate employability, CAS partnered with the Unisa Gauteng Region Counselling Unit to host a career exhibition. The event, held at the Senate Hall in the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Building, attracted more than 400 Accounting Sciences' students and brought together a diverse range of potential employers from sectors such as banking, government and professional accountancy bodies.
CAS lecturers and academics offered guidance and support to students as they explore potential career opportunities
This collaborative initiative is part of a broader institutional commitment to bridging the gap between academic preparation and professional application, equipping students with the knowledge and practical exposure required for success in the workforce.
The event was formally opened by Dr Moses Hlongoane, Executive Dean: CAS, who delivered a thought-provoking address emphasising the need for ethical conduct in the accounting profession. He underscored the critical role of academic integrity in shaping trustworthy professionals and cautioned students about the consequences of academic misconduct, including possible suspension.
Executive Dean Dr Moses Hlongoane delivering the welcome address
The exhibition was attended by key stakeholders such as the Hawks, ABSA, SAICA, ACCA and the Department of Labour, who engaged actively with students, guiding employment and professional development opportunities.
This event followed a successful virtual Accounting Professionals Workshop held in March 2025, aimed at introducing students to a broad spectrum of career paths in accounting and finance. Together, these initiatives reaffirm CAS’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates and maintaining Unisa’s leadership in advancing ethical, employable and impactful accounting professionals. More engagements of this nature are expected as the college and the Gauteng Region Counselling Unit continue to align academic training with national and international workforce demands.
* By Ntsako Mohlaba, CAS Communication and Marketing Specialist
Publish date: 2025-05-07 00:00:00.0