The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Department of Accounting in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) has founded a support fund in honour of a well-respected member of its academic family – Lizette Kotze (48), who passed away on 19 December 2023. The Lizette Kotze Support Fund aims to address the diverse needs of students, ensuring that Kotze’s spirit of compassion and support lives on.

The EMS lecturer was enrolled for a PhD in Accounting Sciences at UP, and her thesis investigated the association between tax avoidance and intentional tax transparency. The submission of her doctoral thesis for examination shortly before her unexpected passing demonstrated Kotze’s determination and scholarly prowess. While her life was tragically cut short, Kotze’s work will remain a foundational contribution, inspiring future scholars to build upon her legacy.

“The establishment of the Lizette Kotze Support Fund is a profound tribute to a remarkable educator whose impact on our academic community was immeasurable,” said Professor Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu, Dean of the EMS Faculty. “This fund represents not only a memorial to her legacy of compassion and support, but is also a beacon of hope for students who are facing various challenges. Through this initiative, we honour Lizette’s dedication to both her research and her students, ensuring that her spirit continues to inspire and uplift future generations of scholars at UP.”

In the realm of teaching and learning, Kotze’s legacy is embodied in the naming of the Leading Accounting Professions (LEAP) programme, which is the University’s revised BCom in Accounting Sciences degree. LEAP is a testament to Kotze’s commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering a positive impact on her students.

As students, alumni and colleagues grieve her 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 Kotze 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 Kotze’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 Kotze.”

Individuals and organisations that wish to donate to the fund can do so via a direct deposit or electronic funds transfer. Donations will help support an increasing number of accounting students from all walks of life, with special emphasis on students who come from disadvantaged families.

Banking details:

Account name: University of Pretoria

Bank: ABSA bank

Account number: 214 000 0038

Branch code: 632005

Swift code: ABSAZAJJ

Reference: A1G551 

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