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Materiality determination process and material matters

LEGEND FOR MATERIAL MATTERS

Worsening
improving
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Worsening
improving
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6. Access, diversity and inclusivity

SAICA faces several interconnected issues that impact the pipeline, sustainability, transformation and attractiveness of the profession. These include:

  • Mathematics challenges − The challenges around mathematics are well documented, the availability of well-trained mathematics teachers and the small numbers of learners taking mathematics affect the number of students entering chartered accountancy programmes
  • Entrant challenges from alternative training providers and universities − The increasing number of training providers and universities offering accounting qualifications creates competition for potential candidates and raises concerns about quality and consistency
  • SAICA examination pass rates − There are still visible gaps in the pass rates of different racial groups. These create challenges for the profession leading to delayed progression for some candidates
Risks, opportunities and strategic response
Risks
  • The profession may be less attractive to potential entrants
  • Increased competition from alternative training providers and universities could divert talent away from SAICA-accredited programmes
  • Candidates who may not be succeeding in SAICA examinations may consider other programmes or professions or professions
  • Diminishing CA pipeline
Related opportunities
Mathematics improvements in pass rates
  • Develop targeted support programmes in collaboration with schools, universities and other key role players to strengthen maths education and bridge the skills gap
  • Integrate relevant technology and innovative teaching methods to make learning engaging and accessible
Training ecosystem
  • Partner with alternative training providers and universities to ensure high-quality education and consistent standards across the profession
  • Facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration among training institutions to leverage diverse expertise and perspectives
  • Explore and implement alternative delivery models (such as online modules, blended learning) to expand access and cater to diverse learning styles
SAICA examination pass rates
  • Partner with training offices to better support candidates writing the SAICA examinations
  • Raising funding for interventions aimed at supporting examination candidates
IMPACT
Capitals
Strategic Pillars
STRATEGIC RESPONSE

SAICA is taking a proactive stance against the mathematics challenges, a critical entry barrier to the accountancy profession. Through various initiatives, SAICA is bridging the educational gap, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring a sustainable future for the profession in South Africa

Initiatives include:
  • SAICA sponsorship of South African Maths Foundation Teacher Development courses and the Mathematics Olympiad to identify and nurture talented young mathematicians and to promote the importance of mathematics education
  • The SAICA Educator Development Programme provides professional development opportunities for mathematics teachers
  • The SAICA Maths Buddy Campaign encourages mathematics teachers to share their passion for the subject with their learners
  • SAICA Development Camps sponsored by the Finance and Accounting Sector Education and Training (FASSET)
  • The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Fund provides financial support to deserving learners who wish to study towards chartered accountancy In tackling mathematics challenges, SAICA collaborates with accredited providers under its CA of the Future Framework and with other organisations to establish alternative entry routes to the profession. SAICA supports candidates taking its professional examinations by implementing assistance programmes and fundraising initiatives for those in need
  • Implementation of the APC and ITC working group recommendations
Outlook for the short, medium and long term
Mathematics
  • In the short and medium term, SAICA foresees the growing need to support learners and educators through strategic partnerships with other role players
  • In the long term, SAICA believes a comprehensive mathematics plan developed through partnerships by different professions and other key role players is required to ensure that the mathematics challenges are addressed holistically
Training ecosystem
  • In the short and medium term, SAICA believes that it should facilitate more partnerships with accredited providers. In the long term, signed reciprocity agreements for different entry routes to the profession and to accredit PGDA programmes offered by HDI providers lacking such accreditation
SAICA exam pass rates
  • In the short and medium term, continued interventions will support candidates in narrowing the gap in the pass rates of different racial groups, ultimately leading to the closure of these gaps in the long term
  • Implementation of the APC and ITC working group recommendations
TRUST RESTORATION

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