The Bold Journey: Crafting a New Era in BCom Accounting

A Platform for All Stages of Learning

Milpark Education offers an approach that serves a diverse range of students, from recent school leavers to experienced professionals aiming to advance their careers.

Deidre notes that the flexible and accessible platform at Milpark is particularly attractive to mid-career individuals seeking technical proficiency, personal growth, and ethical development.

Deidre’s teaching methodology emphasises fostering critical thinking skills, essential for effective decision-making and building confidence among students.

In the first semester, students were still adjusting to the new model, and their critical thinking abilities were just beginning to take shape. Students became more willing to participate in discussions, ask questions, and articulate their ideas with clarity.

This development showcases their enhanced critical thinking abilities, allowing them to thoughtfully consider various perspectives before responding. Their progress highlights the effectiveness of Deidre's approach and her commitment to nurturing her students' intellectual growth.

The Importance of the Risk and Governance Module

The Risk and Governance module is a crucial part of preparing students for the realities of the business world in theBCom Accounting degree.

In any business setting, whether starting your own company or working within an established one, students will encounter risks, unavoidable challenges that can disrupt operations or impact success.

In this course, students learn to identify these business risks, understand their potential impact, and develop strategies to manage them effectively.

Deidre says, “We focus on equipping students with practical tools to respond appropriately to these risks, helping them implement necessary controls to minimise negative effects and keep the business on track. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that students are prepared to support businesses in functioning successfully and achieving their objectives, regardless of the challenges they may face.”

She emphasises that the curriculum integrates ethics into every module rather than treating it as a standalone topic, preparing students to handle real-world dilemmas and ensuring they are technically proficient and capable of navigating complex ethical landscapes.

Reflecting on her career journey, Deidre shares a pivotal moment in her professional life: the decision to leave a role she had held for 15 years.

Feeling the need to embrace change for personal and professional growth, she left behind a place of familiarity and strong relationships to pursue her passion for teaching and developing future CAs(SA).

"Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant is just the beginning of a lifelong learning journey," she remarks, underscoring the importance of continuous self-improvement and adaptability in one’s career.

For Deidre, the benefits of becoming a Chartered Accountant extend far beyond financial success. She speaks candidly about the sacrifices she made during her studies, sacrifices that, in retrospect, were worth the life-changing opportunities that followed.

“This qualification can transform not only your life but also the lives of those around you,” Deidre reflects. The sense of purpose and the opportunities she has gained through her CA(SA) journey continue to impact her life deeply, instilling a profound sense of gratitude.

Deidre’s Advice for Aspiring Chartered Accountants

As a final thought, Deidre encourages aspiring Chartered Accountants to embrace their journey wholeheartedly, even when it involves stepping into the unknown. “Change can be intimidating, but it can also lead to incredible opportunities.

I’m living proof that when you take that leap, great things can happen,” she says with conviction. For Deidre, sharing her journey has not only been a moment of reflection but also a way to inspire others to pursue their dreams with resilience and determination.

Deidre Jooste’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that critical thinking, ethical commitment, and a willingness to embrace change can have on one’s career.

As she continues to inspire and educate the next generation of CAs(SA) through programs like BCom Accounting, her journey illustrates how stepping beyond our comforting confines can lead to remarkable adventures and possibilities.

For more information, visit our programmes orcontact today to apply for a programme tailored for you.