CPUT provides intensive knowledge in taxation

The Department of Accounting Sciences recently celebrated the graduation of the first cohort to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Taxation (NQF8), marking the beginning of new opportunities.

The group is immensely proud and grateful to have reached a milestone, which not only represents their academic achievement but also their resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. Dr Aletta Neethling, Acting Head of the Department of Accounting Sciences, said this qualification is fully accredited by the South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) and pertains to the knowledge component required for the occupational certificate for tax professionals. “This allows students to obtain, after doing their practical and workplace experience and writing the final professional evaluation, the designation tax advisor.”

How many students graduated?

The goal of this course is to deliver advanced professional training by providing intensive, focused, and practical knowledge in taxation. This qualification prepares students with the essential knowledge, skills, attributes, and ethical awareness needed to perform effectively and become competent tax professionals, adhering to the professional and ethical standards established by the South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) and the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA).

“The qualification will thus bridge the gap in knowledge of aspiring accountants and tax professionals to gain professional accreditation. The qualification offers a career path for students leading to professional accreditation in the respective fields of taxation.”

Students require a minimum average of 60% in the Advanced Diploma in Accountancy, which includes the elective course in Advanced Taxation. This programme spans two years and follows a block release format, requiring at least three months of practical experience during the second year.

“We worked so hard to develop this qualification in collaboration with SAIT, and I am so proud of this first cohort of students. They are really the pioneering batch of this programme. They worked hard and truly deserve their qualifications. I also want to thank the lecturers working on this programme. They developed each subject according to the vision we had. It is just a wonderful feeling to be part of this team,” Neethling enthused.

The students also reflected on their academic journey. Asanda Sabata said: "Being part of the first group to graduate from this programme has been both an unexpected honour and a big responsibility. My journey through the taxation specialisation has truly been transformative.” Mihle Magwaza said: “The challenges, the late nights, the tears -they were all part of the process that shaped me into the person I am now. I leave this programme not only with knowledge, but with growth, clarity, and a deep sense of purpose in pursuing a career in tax."

Mpholose Ponya said being the very first students to pursue the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Taxation felt almost “unreal, like standing on top of the cream”. “In a place few have dared to reach, it felt abnormal, even intimidating, to carve out a path where there was none.”

Neethling emphasises that this course is quite challenging and requires significant persistence and dedication from students. “However, the opportunity to eventually qualify as a tax advisor through SAIT will open a lot of doors for your future tax career.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: BoyceAp@cput.ac.za