The Durban University of Technology (DUT) proudly showcased its expertise in financial accounting and technological advancements in the field at the prestigious FASSET Inaugural Research Summit 2025 held in Durban on 25 February 2025. Hosted by the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training (FASSET), the summit brought together thought leaders, researchers, and industry professionals to discuss key trends shaping the finance and accounting sector.
Professor Ferina Marimuthu, Head of the Department of Financial Accounting at DUT, delivered an insightful presentation on “The Role of Academia in Driving Skills Development in the Finance and Accounting Sector.” Her address underscored the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry to foster the development of future-ready accounting professionals. She highlighted DUT’s innovative curriculum and research initiatives aimed at equipping students with the skills required in an evolving digital landscape.
The summit truly shone a spotlight on the research prowess of DUT students, who presented cutting-edge projects that explored the intersection of finance and technology.
Third-year Diploma in Accounting students, Busisiwe Mzila, Ntando Majola, and Zanele Zuma, delivered a compelling presentation on “How Machine Learning Could Enhance Anomaly Detection in Accounting.” Their research explored the potential of artificial intelligence to revolutionize fraud detection and improve financial accuracy, showcasing a keen understanding of emerging technologies.
PhD candidate in Accounting, Sharanam Abbana, and Advanced Diploma in ICT student, Thobani Gabuza, collaborated on a presentation titled “Exploring the Bloomberg Terminal: Diving into Financial Data and Market Analysis Tools.”
Their work demonstrated the power of advanced technology in financial decision-making, highlighting the importance of data literacy in the modern financial sector.
Further pushing the boundaries of financial innovation, PhD candidate in Accounting, Thobelani Thango, captivated the audience with his research on “Blockchain Disruption in Accounting and Auditing: Are Professionals Ready for the Shift?” His presentation explored the transformative potential of blockchain technology in enhancing financial transparency and accountability.
DUT student, Ntando Majola said it was a pleasure to be part of such an innovative experience. “Not only did it challenge us technically, but it also pushed us mentally, teaching us to develop original and forward-thinking solutions to address the challenges faced by SMEs. Thank you, Prof Marimuthu, and the entire department for believing in my team and I,” she said.
The impact of DUT’s presentations was evident in the enthusiastic response from FASSET leadership. “FASSET was honoured and impressed by the students’ research presentation. It’s always encouraging to see the next generation making strides and pushing the boundaries of knowledge in their field. Their work certainly seems to be paving the way for exciting developments in the sector,” said the Acting CEO of FASSET, Mr Makabongwe Siziba, who further emphasised the significance of the students’ work, stating, “The role of data in driving skills development cannot be overstated. These submissions are vital for shaping training programs that meet the sector’s needs.”
The summit provided a valuable platform for DUT’s Accounting researchers and students to engage with industry professionals, fostering a collaborative environment for the exchange of groundbreaking ideas. The Department of Financial Accounting continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering research excellence and equipping students for impactful careers in the ever-evolving financial sector.
Pictured: Delegates at the prestigious FASSET Inaugural Research Summit 2025.
Article Supplied by the Department of Financial Accounting
