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Carries a full article that it is history in the making as the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) steps outside the traditional academic boundaries in an effort to boost the numbers of professional accountants available to the South African economy. The university, situated in the Eastern Cape, recently signed a groundbreaking agreement with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) South Africa, making it the first university in the country to deliver a professional qualification in accounting. Given the Eastern Cape's legacy of creating great leaders - it is the birthplace of many South African leaders, including Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki and Steve Biko - it is ACCA's fervent hope that the Walter Sisulu University will become renowned as the alma mater of many great leaders in the South African accounting profession.

Quinton Simpson, Head of ACCA SA is quoted saying that "ACCA is proud to have forged a partnership with the Walter Sisulu University and to be able to play a role in enabling learners, including those from remote rural areas in the Eastern Cape, with an opportunity to access a world-class, internationally recognised professional accounting qualification."

Both parties are committed to dismantling the various artificial barriers that currently inhibit people who have the necessary ability, commitment and application from becoming professional accountants.  Tonia Valis, head of education at ACCA SA, cites the partnership between the association and the university as a good example of a structured interface between universities, SETAs and other training institutions that can produce good results.

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