The College of Accounting Sciences at Unisa is proud to acknowledge the participation of Prof Cameron Modisane, Deputy Executive Dean of the college, as a guest speaker at the prestigious 2025 IIA (SA) Public Sector Conference. Hosted by the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIA SA), in collaboration with the National Treasury, this high-level hybrid event took place on 5 and 6 May at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg.
Prof Cameron Modisane participating in a panel discussion at the conference
Held under the theme Game Changers: Serving Public Interest Through Innovation, the conference brought together internal audit professionals, government representatives, academics and thought leaders to discuss the future of the public sector. With a keen focus on innovation, artificial intelligence and the professionalisation of internal auditing, the event aimed to foster dialogue and actionable solutions for challenges facing the public service.
Modisane was a key contributor to the panel discussion titled "Reimagining Public Services: Innovation, AI, and Agile for the Next Generation". He presented Unisa’s proactive efforts to align academic programmes with the evolving demands of the public sector. Emphasising curriculum innovation, Modisane highlighted how Unisa is integrating digital acumen and cutting-edge AI competencies into its internal auditing programme and the CA2025 competency framework.
He explained that these efforts are part of Unisa’s broader Catalytic Niche Area strategy, which positions the institution at the forefront of innovation in public sector education. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Unisa graduates are not only academically equipped but also digitally fluent and ready to meet industry demands immediately upon graduation.
Adding further value to the conference, Prof Modisane also delivered a detailed presentation under the topic "Continuous Auditing Using AI Tools for Auditors". His presentation showcased how artificial intelligence can revolutionise audit practices by enhancing accuracy, identifying patterns in historical data, automating routine tasks and boosting overall efficiency.
The session also highlighted the recent release of a pioneering publication titled Continuous Auditing with AI in the Public Sector, to which Modisane contributed. The book, launched in September 2024 by Unisa’s College of Accounting Sciences, offers a comprehensive guide on integrating AI tools into auditing processes and supports the growing demand for innovation in public accountability.
With nearly 200 influential stakeholders attending both in person and virtually, the conference served as a vibrant hub for professional growth and cross-sector collaboration. It was a platform where academia, government and industry converged to drive transformation in public sector auditing.
The college extends its congratulations to Prof Modisane for his thought leadership and for actively championing Unisa’s mission to lead through innovation, relevance and excellence in higher education. His contributions at the conference underscore the university’s vital role in shaping the future of internal auditing and public service in South Africa and beyond.
* Submitted by the College of Accounting Sciences
Publish date: 2025-05-23 00:00:00.0