By Mohalenyane Phakela
MASERU — Chartered Accounting (CA) graduates from Centre for Accounting Studies (CAS) celebrated their accomplishments at a gala dinner at Maseru Sun Cabanas last Wednesday.
For the first time in the institution’s history, there were 26 accountants that received the CA qualification.
Given that the school normally has only up to seventeen graduates at most, this milestone needed a celebration.
The CA qualification is recognised worldwide as the mark of quality and professionalism throughout all the areas of industry and private practice.
It opens diverse and rewarding careers.
From forensics accounting, audit, assurance, business recovery through to corporate finance and tax advice, CAS’ deputy rector Alex Chavula spoke about opportunities awaiting achievers.
He continued: “Chartered accountants have excellent opportunities, but first and foremost, you need to be honest, ethical and to stand-out.
“Let your way of conduct speak for your profession.
“CAS is hoping that this will be the first of many gala dinners, if only your record is broken. Congratulations!”
Also addressing them was the Chief Executive Officer of Lesotho Institute of Accountants (LIA) ‘Mamoorosi Raditapole who explained what it takes to be an accredited chartered accountant.
“There are three Es that will make you a qualified CA.
“First, it is Education which you just got from school. Second is Experience which you can acquire from the job or undergo in our structured training. Last but not least is the Ethics by which you will conduct yourselves.
“You are now ambassadors of this profession so take your time to understand it.
“The industry is very fragile so subscribe to a professional conduct.
“Remember to keep modernised about the issues with regard your job.
It is a lifetime commitment; do not break it.”
The high-fliers were further urged to be committed to their work and strive to be the country’s assets.
Despite any favouritism they may encounter, they were urged to strive to be leaders and that being a CA comes at a very high cost which requires discipline.
They were urged to commit not to steal tax-payers’ funds.
Among the distinguished guests were the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry Moahloli Mphaka (who is also a CA), CAS diplomat Lerata Pekane and CAS alumni Tefo Molupe.
Speaking on behalf of the newly qualified CAs, Monyaola Mosoloane said: “This has been my dream for the past seven years.
“Meeting my associates when I got to CAS we turned it into our passion.
“We were about 120 when we started but today we are only 26. It bears testimony to the fact that many are called but few are chosen.
“We got here through determination and prayer.
“To those who did not make it do not despair but just remember that success is an attitude, so let’s meet at the top.
“We are very proud of ourselves and thankful to lecturers for their guidance.”
