The University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) PsyCaD Career Services, in partnership with PKF Octagon, gave 38 high-achieving Accounting students an exclusive opportunity to explore the evolving world of the profession during the Future-Ready with PKF Career Experience on 28 August 2026.
Hosted at PKF Octagon’s offices in Waverley, Johannesburg, the one-day programme connected academic excellence with practical industry exposure, giving selected students direct access to accounting and business leaders, emerging workplace technologies and insights into the skills shaping the future of the profession.
The programme opened with a welcome address by Mari-Louise Kotze CA(SA), Chief Operating Officer at PKF Octagon, followed by The Future Starts Here, presented by Waldek Wasowicz CA(SA) RA, Managing Director. The sessions provided students with a perspective on how the accounting and professional services landscape is changing and what this means for graduates entering the workplace.
A key highlight was the Copilot Innovation Lab, facilitated by Kotze and Shani Van Kraayenburg, Head of Digital Transformation, which explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in professional services. Students also participated in a Power Skills session led by Andri Correia CA(SA) RA, Professional and Development Lead, an Excel Masterclass delivered by Jabulile Nhleko, Junior Learning and Development Manager CA(SA), and Unlocking Xero, presented by Junaid Steele, Senior Account Executive at Xero.
The combination of technical, digital and professional development sessions exposed students to the changing expectations of the accounting profession and the importance of complementing technical expertise with adaptable workplace skills.
The programme concluded with the presentation of certificates and prizes, followed by a networking session that gave students an opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals and gain insights into potential career pathways.
For Accounting student Ipeleng Motlhabane, the experience provided a valuable perspective beyond the classroom.
“The event gave me practical insights into the accounting profession that I would not have gained in a classroom. Learning about AI, digital transformation, and industry expectations has helped me feel more prepared for my future career.”
The initiative also highlighted PKF Octagon’s commitment to developing the next generation of professionals.
“At PKF Octagon, we believe in investing in the next generation of professionals. Through initiatives like Future-Ready with PKF, we aim to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and industry exposure needed to thrive in a rapidly changing business environment,” said Bridgette Buqa, Graduate Recruitment Manager at PKF Octagon.
For PsyCaD Career Services, partnerships with industry play an important role in strengthening graduate employability by giving students opportunities to understand workplace expectations and engage with professionals in their fields.
“Partnerships such as this one between PsyCaD Career Services and PKF Octagon play a vital role in enhancing student employability. By connecting students with industry leaders and emerging workplace trends, we help prepare students for successful transitions into the world of work,” said Bongani Stuurman of PsyCaD Career Services at UJ.
The Future-Ready with PKF Career Experience demonstrates how collaboration between higher education and industry can create meaningful opportunities for students to bridge the gap between academic learning and the workplace. Through exposure to artificial intelligence, digital transformation, financial technology and professional development, the programme equipped participating students with a broader understanding of the skills and capabilities required to navigate an increasingly dynamic accounting profession.
