The Southern African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) LGSETA and TETA Candidacy Programme is paying off in a big way!
Trainees from the University of Venda continue to demonstrate remarkable progress at their respective training firms, through an initiative designed to equip aspiring auditors with practical, hands-on experience and bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
The trainees have shared positive feedback about their experiences, highlighting the valuable skills and exposure they are gaining in the field. The candidates are currently placed across several accredited training firms, including JT29 Management Consulting, Pholela Business Advisory, Motlolano Chartered Accountants and Auditors, Tshehlo Tlou Accountants and Azania Chartered Accountants.
Trainee Talifhani Elisah Tshifaro, who is placed at Tshehlo Tlou Accountants, reflected on her professional growth and the knowledge she has acquired since beginning her journey.
“Since I have started my training, I have gained practical knowledge in financial data management, bank reconciliation and asset verification,” she said.
“I’ve learned to use the Sage accounting system to import and allocate bank statement transactions accurately, which improved my understanding of how accounting systems integrate with financial reporting.”
Tshifaro added that the training has been instrumental in strengthening her technical and analytical skills.
“I feel my training is progressing very well and aligning with my learning objectives. I’ve gained confidence in using accounting software and handling real business transactions. The exposure to financial reporting and asset management has been invaluable.”
While the experience has been overwhelmingly positive, Tshifaro also acknowledged that it came with some initial challenges, “Adapting to new systems like Sage and managing large volumes of data during asset verification was challenging at first,” she explained.
“However, I overcame this by taking time to understand the system thoroughly, consulting my supervisor, and improving my time management and attention to detail.”
Reflecting on her overall experience, Tshifaro described her time at Tshehlo Tlou Accountants as both educational and rewarding, “The environment is very supportive. I’ve had the chance to apply my theoretical knowledge in real-world situations and the team encourages collaboration and continuous learning. The hands-on experience has broadened my understanding of professional accounting practices.”
When asked what aspects of her work she enjoys most, she says, “I enjoy financial analysis and system-based work, especially using Sage to allocate transactions and prepare financial statements. These tasks allow me to apply problem-solving and analytical thinking, which I find very fulfilling. I also enjoy asset verification because it requires accuracy, teamwork and attention to detail, all of which help me grow professionally.”
Another trainee, Shudufatso Mukwevho, who is completing her training at Motlolano Chartered Accountants and Auditors, echoed similar sentiments about the positive impact of the programme.
“My experience has been great. I started my training in May this year, and I am learning so much. My communication skills have improved a lot and I now have many audit skills that I didn’t know before.”
Through these candidacy programmes, SAIGA continues to play a pivotal role in developing future-ready audit professionals, providing trainees with practical exposure, mentorship and opportunities to enhance their competencies within the accounting and auditing sectors.
The University of Venda offers accredited programmes in Accounting and auditing that provided a strong foundation in these trainees knowledge of accounting and auditing.