Clashing Goals of SAICA and South African Universities: A Need for Reflection and Realignment

Abstract

This article recognises the conflicting goals of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and the faculties of commerce in South African universities. To achieve the central aim of the study, a qualitative approach based on a literature review was applied. The study argues that the excessive focus of SAICA on the chartered accountancy route prevents accounting research in the country and is thus in conflict with the research objectives of faculties of commerce in South African universities. Based on this argument, the study suggests a realignment of objectives. Conflict resolution demands that the teaching and research route in the accounting mentorship programme be promoted and incentivised by creating funds to augment the salaries of lecturers in the SAICA-accredited accounting departments in the country. This realignment will further strengthen the resolve of both SAICA and faculties of commerce in universities to produce world-class higher education and chartered accountants.