Professional Accountants (SA) can aid Government to effectively address the country’s maladministration and infrastructural challenges
BDO South Africa has urged Government to bring and retain more skilled chartered accountants to the public sector to tackle the country’s structural issues.
Professional Accountants (SA) stand tall alongside chartered accountants in being fully equipped for compulsory government service. In their collective and individual capacities, they bring the necessary expertise, skills, and commitment to drive economic growth, transparency, and sustainable financial practices.
“By recognising and expanding the pool of qualified professionals, we strengthen the workforce and foster economic growth, transparency and effective governance,” says Faith Ngwenya, Technical & Standards Executive at the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA). “Professional Accountants (SA) are equipped for crucial government roles, contributing to economic growth and transparency with their principles, expertise and commitment. Their capabilities and contributions enhance governance, decision-making, and the overall success of organisations and economies.”
A case in point is the actions of the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) member and Professional Accountant (SA), Mduduzi Vilakazi, the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency CEO, who has continued to inspire and show exemplary business advisory and ethical leadership even when the odds are against him.
Vilakazi, appointed into his position in October 2022, has vast experience as an internal auditor, supply chain manager, financial reporting and budgeting director and is said to have “steered the Agency in the right direction” despite navigating significant resistance from senior individuals who “feed their relatives tenders and irregular contacts”.
Shahied Daniels, Chief Executive at SAIPA says that by Government recognising and leveraging the Institute’s member expertise, South Africa can achieve sustainable economic growth and maintain a more robust financial ecosystem.
“Professional Accountants (SA) possess the requisite skills to streamline processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement effective controls to prevent financial mismanagement. Their unique perspective as chief value officers can contribute significantly to developing sustainable economic policies and delivering tangible benefits to the country,” says Daniels.
As one individual or entity cannot single-handedly solve South Africa’s economic problems, a collaborative approach with stakeholders in the education sector, Government and business is needed. We therefore urge BDO to amend the call to Government to bring and retain more skilled Professional Accountants (SA) to the public sector.