by Reatlegile Ratlagane
In an important step towards shaping the future of ethical governance and financial leadership, the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), in collaboration with the Southern African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA), has officially launched the very first SAIGA student chapter, Re a Thusana, within the Faculty of Economics and Finance on 30 May 2025.
Re a Thusana, a Sesotho phrase meaning “We help each other,” captures the spirit of collaboration and mutual growth that defines this pioneering initiative. Hosted and managed by TUT’s Department of Public Sector Finance, the chapter is set to become a transformative platform for students pursuing studies in economics, public finance and related disciplines.
The primary aim of the student chapter is to equip students with practical knowledge as well as exposure to the real-world financial and auditing sectors. Through seminars, mentorship opportunities and direct interaction with industry leaders, students will gain valuable insights into the professional environment they intend to enter. These engagements will also create networking opportunities essential for building a successful career in the public finance and auditing sectors.
Sipho Malukeke, TUT’s Head of the Department of Public Sector Finance, reinforced the importance of exposing students to industry stakeholders while they are still in their formative academic years.
“The Department of Public Sector Finance, is honoured to host the first SAIGA student chapter in the Institute’s history. This initiative represents our shared commitment to nurturing young talent and aligns with TUT’s mission to equip students with the skills, knowledge and attitude required to become responsible and enterprising citizens,” said Malukeke.
The establishment of the Re a Thusana chapter reflects SAIGA’s broader vision to promote ethical leadership, accountability, and professional excellence in the public sector. By engaging with students early in their academic journeys, SAIGA hopes to instill a strong foundation of ethical practice and industry awareness, which are critical attributes for any future leader in government auditing and finance.
“We are responsible for leading with transparency and to champion ethical governance,” SAIGA representatives said during the launch. “The discussions, insights and collective vision shared today, reinforced that leadership is more than just holding a position, it is also about making impactful decisions that build a better future. The future of governance depends on individuals who prioritise accountability, fairness and responsibility. Let’s continue to support academic leaders who embody ethical excellence and inspire transformation.”
The inaugural Chairperson of the Re a Thusana Student Chapter, Ikageng Malebye, a student currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Public Finance, commended the initiative, recognizing it as a vital bridge between academic learning and industry application.
“The partnership with SAIGA will assist us in bridging the gap between what students learn in class and what happens in the industry,” she said. “It is an opportunity to engage directly with professionals and get to understand the real-world challenges and expectations of our chosen careers.”
The collective presence of Faculty members, SAIGA representatives, students and stakeholders from across the public finance sector attending the event, accentuated the significance of the initiative and the shared belief in its potential to shape the next generation of ethical and competent financial professionals.
As South Africa continues to call for greater accountability and efficiency in the public sector, initiatives like the Re a Thusana student chapter are both timely and essential. By connecting academic theory with industry practice and instilling ethical leadership values early, TUT and SAIGA are laying the groundwork for a new era of public sector excellence.
Faculty of Economics and Finance’s Research and Learning Assistant Dean, Kgobalale Motubatsi; Public Sector Finance HoD, Sipho Maluleke; SAIGA representatives and the newly elected members of the Re a Thusana committee.