"Our strategic objectives at the College of Accounting Sciences (CAS) are: to improve the quality of our product offerings (qualifications); increase the throughput rate (pass rate) in the Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA) and South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA's) Initial Test of Competence (ITC) exams by providing additional tutorial support," explained Sibusiso Mthembu, Manager of Strategic Projects, at the virtual CAS student orientation.

He added: "Most importantly, we want to increase our brand equity to the job market to enhance our students' employability opportunities, which is key in measuring the success of the college." For these reasons, CAS continuously engages with various stakeholders, such as the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) and the Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA) to assist Unisa students financially. "The financial support also enables us to provide much-needed academic support to our students," said Mthembu.

Sibusiso Mthembu, Manager of Strategic Projects, at the virtual CAS student orientation

To introduce the students to the college, CAS hosts a series of student orientation events each year to welcome their students and affirm their commitment to providing excellent tuition and learning through various support initiatives. This year's orientation was a three-day event, with the first day dedicated to all CAS students, followed by a two-day CTA workshop.

In his address, the Acting Executive Dean, Dr Moses Hlongoane, welcomed students and reassured them that they had made the best decision by investing in their academic careers. "I hope and wish that the 2023 academic year will be one of the best experiences in your academic career," he said. Hlongoane continued: "CAS is committed to advancing and achieving its target and mandate of strengthening student support services." He added: "As a college, we have declared the 2023 academic year to provide excellent student support and are committed to providing quality registered and accredited academic programmes; and we have lined up a range of services to help you achieve your goals."

"It is important that you, as a student, study very hard. When experiencing challenges, you should consult your lecturers, attend all classes, and submit assessments on time; this will ensure that you are a step ahead with your studies," said Hlongoane. He further encouraged the students: "Let me emphasise that Unisa is a comprehensive online distance eLearning institution. Therefore, you must have access to a computer. We live in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and must have our graduates ready for the industry." He urged students to take advantage of all the university's services. “I welcome you to Unisa's College of Accounting Sciences. As the university celebrates its 150th anniversary, I would like you to give this institution the best gift by passing all your modules,” Hlongoane said.

Acting Executive Dean, Dr Moses Hlongoane, welcomed students to the 2023 academic year

The CAS Acting Head of Quality Assurance, Mlungisi Hlongoane, gave a presentation on Academic Integrity (AI). "Academic dishonesty/misconduct is a breach of Unisa's policies and involves behaviour contrary to academic integrity; please do not be tempted by service providers who offer their services to help you with assignments or examinations," he stressed.

Hlongoane said: "Despite our efforts to create awareness about academic integrity and honesty, some students may display conduct that seeks to give themselves undue academic advantage; this will not be accepted in the college.” He added: “We want to produce ethical accountants who will represent Unisa and the accounting profession with integrity. Therefore, we will not accept any form of academic dishonesty. At CAS, we are very firm on our zero-tolerance to cheating rule, whether at the undergraduate or postgraduate level."

"There are various categories of academic dishonesty/misconduct, ranging from minor to serious infringements; however, all these contraventions are taken seriously, and we strongly encourage you not to participate in either,” stressed Hlongoane. "If you are found guilty, there will be consequences; most of the students who are found guilty are suspended for more than one academic year," he cautioned.

CAS Acting Head of Quality Assurance, Mlungisi Hlongoane, shared a presentation on academic dishonesty

Student support services

Unisa provides various support services to students; first-time university entrants can rely on support services from directorates, such as all regional counselling departments. Dr Enid Bunki Pitsoane, Head of Counselling in the Gauteng Region, presented the directorate's various services. Among the services offered are career fairs, workshops, seminars and mentorship programmes by young professionals and free services from qualified psychologists. The Student Retention Unit (SRU) also provides services to students to ensure that they succeed in their academic journey.

* By Ntsako Mohlaba, Communications and Marketing; CAS