MPhil Business Management with specialisation in Critical Accounting Info-session

7 August 2024

On July 30th, the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute at the University of Pretoria hosted a compelling information session for its new MPhil program in Critical Accounting. This pioneering program aims to equip accounting professionals with the knowledge and skills to redefine the role of accountants in society, emphasizing public interest and ethical responsibility. In attendance we had prospective students as well as leaders of auditing firms and accounting bodies.

The session opened with remarks from Professor Derick de Jongh, Director of the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute. Professor de Jongh shared the institute’s vision of reimagining leadership and explained why it is the ideal host for the new MPhil program. He highlighted the institute’s commitment to fostering leaders who prioritize ethical practices and societal well-being over short-term gains.

The highlight of the event was a keynote address by Rob Rose, former editor of the Financial Mail and renowned author of “Steinheist” and “The Grand Scam.” Rob took the audience on an insightful journey through some of the most significant accounting and auditing scandals of the past few decades. He reflected on the lessons learned from these incidents and underscored the importance of transforming the accounting profession to prevent such occurrences in the future. Rob's extensive background in fraud and corporate governance reporting, coupled with his award-winning journalism and current work with the Financial Times and Currency, provided a rich perspective on the critical need for responsible leadership in accounting.

Dr. Tumeka Matshoba-Ramuedzisi, the program lead for the MPhil Business Management with specialisation in Critical Accounting, provided a detailed overview of the course. Dr Tumeka balances academia and practice as a Senior Researcher at the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute at the University of Pretoria and a Chartered Accountant (SA) and Registered Auditor. This experience allows her to provide a plethora of knowledge to this program.

The event concluded with an engaging panel discussion featuring Rob Rose and Dr. Tumeka Matshoba-Ramuedzisi, moderated by Elma Akob. The discussion centered on the importance of responsible leadership, transparency, and accountability in the accounting profession. The panelists emphasized that accountants should serve as the guardians of society, prioritizing societal interests over illicit profits.

The information session was a resounding success, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the new MPhil in Critical Accounting program and its potential to reshape the accounting profession. The Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute looks forward to welcoming the next generation of ethical and responsible accounting leaders.

For more information about the MPhil in Critical Accounting program, download the BROCHURE

Watch the full event below