Future-Focused Approach to Becoming a Chartered Accountant

Future-Focused Approach to Becoming a Chartered Accountant

For anyone with ambitions to become a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) in South Africa, a strong educational foundation is fundamental. The journey begins with Milpark Education (incorporating CAConnect). Their School of Professional Accounting is committed to guiding aspiring Chartered Accountants through the demanding process that calls for focus, commitment, and a strong learning foundation.

Milpark Education offers the SAICA-endorsed BCom Accounting and PGDA/CTA, a transformative programme designed to prepare graduates for the rigorous SAICA Assessment Test of Competence (ATC).

Meet Jean-Pierre Malgas

Making Accounting Matter

Milpark Education lecturer, Jean-Pierre Malgas’s inspirational journey from student to CA(SA) is a story of ambition, grit, and seizing every opportunity. As a Grade 10 learner at Grey High School, Jean-Pierre’s grades could not have predicted his future success in accounting.

“I didn’t understand accounting at all,” he recalls. However, his curiosity and resilience led him to pursue further education, earning not one but two honours degrees in Accounting and Economics.

Jean-Pierre started with postgraduate studies in a BCom Honours (Accounting) programme, followed by articles in auditing. He sought opportunities in academia, engaging in tutoring and facilitation roles, while completing postgraduate studies in Economics. Jean-Pierre’s decision to join Milpark Education was driven by the institution’s innovative approach to online learning.

Transformative Teaching for Aspiring Chartered Accountants

Unlike traditional universities, Milpark Education (incorporating CAConnect) integrates modules across subjects, fostering a clear and cohesive understanding of management accounting and finance, financial accounting, auditing and tax, while also infusing critical thinking and decision-making.

Now a full-time lecturer at Milpark Education, Jean-Pierre specialises in Management Accounting and Finance, teaching third-year management accounting and finance.

Jean-Pierre’s role at Milpark Education isn’t confined to lectures; he’s found a platform to amplify his vision. He guides students to analyse complex scenarios and apply practical solutions, a skill set that aligns with the demands of South Africa’s vibrant business landscape.

By creating curricula tailored to modern business challenges, his work reflects a teaching style that’s accessible, inclusive, and transformative. His teaching style, engaging, and deeply personal, has made him a favourite among students. His efforts bridge the gap between balancing theoretical knowledge and practical application.

His teaching gives students the opportunity to apply practical solutions in business case scenarios, a skill set that meets the demands of corporate business.

Cultivating Future Leaders in Accounting

The Milpark Education Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting is more than a degree; it’s a transformative learning experience aimed at equipping students with practical skills and a deeper understanding of the accounting profession. From technical expertise to leadership development, the programme prepares graduates to thrive in their future studies and make a significant impact in the roles they will fill in the future as professional accountants.

This year, the Milpark Education Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting was retrospectively endorsed by SAICA. The Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting is designed from the start with the same objectives as SAICA's CA of the Future Competency Framework.

Key Features of the BCom Accounting and PGDA/CTA

  • SAICA Endorsement: Ensures the curriculum meets the high standards required for the SAICA ATC, positioning graduates for success.
  • Integrated Learning: The curriculum is structured to connect subjects like financial management, auditing, and taxation, helping students see the bigger picture and apply their knowledge holistically.
  • Industry-Relevant Focus: Emphasises real-world applications, the program aligns with current business needs, making graduates highly sought-after by employers.
  • Student-Centric Approach: Dedicated lecturers provide personalised guidance and mentorship throughout the programme.

Future-Focused Flexible Learning

Milpark Education (incorporating CAConnect) understands that students come from diverse backgrounds and have varying needs. Therefore, the BCom Accounting and PGDA/CTA is designed to fit your lifestyle whether you’re a recent graduate or working professional looking to upskill.

  • Hybrid Learning: a mix of online and face-to-face sessions allow students to balance their studies with other commitments.
  • Up-to-Date Content: The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect changes in the financial and regulatory landscape, ensuring graduates stay ahead of industry trends.
  • Accessible Resources: Milpark Education provides comprehensive study materials, case studies, and interactive sessions to help students to seamlessly engage with the content.

Beyond technical expertise, Milpark Education’s BCom Accounting and PGDA/CTA develops critical thinking, leadership, and ethical decision-making. These qualities ensure graduates not only excel in exams like the SAICA ATC but also thrive in the competitive world of financial management and accounting.

Read More: On the Road to CA Success Ten Years Later: Kristen Farnham’s Story

Milpark Education’s Unique Approach

  • Critical Thinking: Encourages students to analyse situations, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
  • Leadership Development: Prepares students to take on roles that require vision, strategy, and effective communication.
  • Ethical Practice: Instils a strong sense of integrity and responsibility in all aspects of professional life.

The lecturers at Milpark Education play a pivotal part in this journey, drawing on their own experience to provide insights, guidance and mentorship. Jean-Pierre shares, “We are genuinely committed to developing students and setting them up for success.

This intention is reflected in everything we do, from how we approach teaching, to the way we engage with one another as colleagues. It’s about more than just academics, it’s about fostering an environment where students can thrive, achieve their goals, and build a strong foundation for the future.”

Final Thoughts

Milpark Education is dedicated to shaping the future of aspiring Chartered Accountants in South Africa. With its SAICA endorsed BCom Accounting and PGDA/CTA, expert mentorship and innovative approach to learning, Milpark equips students with skills, knowledge and confidence needed to excel in the competitive world of accounting.

Further your studies and apply now to join the BCom Accounting and PGDA/CTA and transform your future with Milpark Education.

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Jean-Pierre Malgas Lecturer