Who was Lizette Kotze?

Lizette Kotze was a remarkable accounting educator whose impact on the academic community was immeasurable. She unexpectedly passed away in December 2023, after a short illness. Lizette has left the University of Pretoria with so many beautiful memories. It started with her interview back in 2009 where she named the hypothetical company included in her presentation as Pick-Me Limited. Fortunately, the University of Pretoria picked her…

When conversations got lengthy or when she thought conversations got heated, she (being an accounting lecturer) normally remarked “just remember, I am not good with numbers”. And who will forget that Lizette would jokingly refer to deadlines as rough guidelines. She frequently quoted colleagues and students showing that she really listened to others. She often said “I love it”, followed by a proud “I made it myself”, whether it was a dress, slides for a lecture, or setting the tables for the departmental year-end function. Lizette had the ability to look at the disaster that life makes, take a step back, and dance to a tune of her own…

Lizette had the gift to connect with students at their level. Her lectures were more than just lectures, they were events, occasions, that showed her passion for teaching. Sometimes she kicked off her shoes and lectured barefoot, at times she would lecture standing on a table, spontaneous dancing could happen at any time, and Monday lectures started with good music. She could sing and her students knew that they would need to sing if they arrived even slightly late for a 07:30 lecture. And if they struggled to get going with a song, she would assist with her rendition of “are you lonesome tonight”.

The comments made by students on her lecturer evaluations indicate the impact that she had on her students:

• Mrs Kotze is an amazing lecturer whose enthusiasm not just for accounting, but for life in general, has made this module so enjoyable. I felt excited to attend lectures and found the way in which she taught to be of the highest quality. Mrs Kotze helped me understand the work and made it enjoyable, all at the same time.
• Mrs Kotze has such a unique talent to make accounting fun, whether it is unforgettable analogies like Demi Dementia or a well-timed joke. Accounting classes with Mrs Kotze is something I will never forget.
• Mrs Kotze's joyous, funny and energetic take on lectures definitely made class a lot more enjoyable. This helped me to be more comfortable with the work. She was very motivating and her overall style is awesome!
• The best lecturer!! She is so nice and funny and makes class fun. She has a passion for teaching and loves connecting with her students. I love her jokes and dancing.
• Mrs Kotze made the lessons fun and enjoyable, but was also really good at explaining the work. Absolutely the best lecturer of my university career.
• Mrs Kotze has the best way of keeping a student’s attention. She is very creative with her teaching style, and every lecture is exciting. I don't think I have ever been as entertained in an accounting class as when she was teaching.
• You are an amazing lecturer. Thank you for your enthusiasm and your love for us.
• BEST LECTURER EVER!!!!

The last few years Lizette has worked tirelessly on her doctoral degree. Doing a PhD requires guts, grit, determination, and hard work. On 4 December 2023, 15 days before her passing, Lizette submitted her final thesis for examination. Her PhD has subsequently been approved for posthumous award during the Spring 2024 graduation ceremony.

Dear Lizette – your light will always shine...

Why the Lizette Kotze Student Support Fund was established

As students, alumni and colleagues grieved Lizette’s untimely passing, stories of hope have emerged, pointing towards a life lived in support of her students. UP students spoke of the challenges that they faced while studying and how Lizette had a significant impact on them completing their studies.

“She played an instrumental role in many students believing in themselves, regardless of their financial background, race or gender,” said Lawrence Thato Pheeha. “She went above and beyond for all students, and was an advocate of giving everyone second chances.”

“During my first encounter with Mrs Kotze, I entered her office frantically in need of a financial calculator for my financial accounting exam in second year,” said Lizette’s former student Natasha Saburi. “I had left mine in my room and the exam was starting in 15 minutes. Although she did not have one with her, Mrs Kotze helped me get one from one of her colleagues. At the time, I was a stranger to her, and she willingly helped me. When I thanked her for her assistance a couple of days later, she downplayed her role by stating that “lecturers are here to help students” and that “fortune favours the brave”. I believe that lecturers are there to assist us, but I was not fortunate because I was brave; I was fortunate because I sought help in the right place – in the office of a woman who truly wanted to help, regardless of whether she knew me or not.”

“There is so much that we can do if we all put our hands together for a worthy cause,” said Mqondisi Shilubane. “Therefore, I urge everyone to gather resources for fellow students, in memory of Mrs Kotze.”

The Lizette Kotze Student Support Fund (LKSSF) was founded in honour of Lizette’s dedication to her students. The Fund is not only a memorial to her legacy, but is also a beacon of hope for students who are facing various challenges. The aim of the Fund is to ensure that Lizette’s spirit of compassion and support lives on.

LKSSF - Empowering Dreams, One Student at a Time!

Why Your Support Matters

Many talented and deserving University of Pretoria (UP) students face significant financial barriers to higher education. Unexpected events can further impact the socio-economic circumstances of these students, putting their dreams of obtaining a degree at risk. The LKSSF is dedicated to bridging this gap, ensuring that deserving students in the Department of Accounting have the opportunity to achieve their academic and professional goals. By contributing to the LKSSF, you will empower students to pursue their dreams and provide stability in times of crisis.

How You Can Help? 

Your generous donation can make a lasting impact on the lives of students. Here's how you can contribute:

• One-time Donation: A single donation can provide immediate support to students in need.
• Monthly Giving: Regular monthly contributions offer sustained support to help more students throughout their academic journey.
• For more excitement, support one of the fundraising initiatives…

Make a donation today (either online, using your credit card, or by means of an electronic funds transfer) and be a part of shaping a brighter future for our students!

If you require a Section 18A certificate for tax purposes, please contact [email protected].

Current fundraising initiatives

Wille Willemien Camino

Some of the FRK 705 lecturers will be hiking the Wille Willemien Camino to raise funds for the LKSSF. Click here for more information.

Banking details for electronic funds transfer

Account name: University of Pretoria

Bank: ABSA bank

Account number: 214 000 0038

Branch code: 632005

Swift code: ABSAZAJJ

Reference: A1G551

The LKSSF is an UP-approved support fund and donations received are managed by UP regulations and through the UP financial system.