SAICA announced that 2 507 (2020: 2 149) candidates who wrote the first 2021 sitting of the Initial Test of Competence (ITC) in April had passed
When it comes to education and training during the COVID-19 pandemic, the global consensus is that students are negatively affected by the challenges of studying remotely. Over and above the mental strain of the pandemic, students faced many challenges including the stop-start nature of the academic year, as well as adapting to online learning and teaching. Educationalists are predicting that some knock-on effects of the pandemic may result in the delayed progression and graduation of students. Yet many students have turned these challenges into opportunities. This is certainly the case for the prospective chartered accountants (CAs(SA)) who wrote and passed the April ITC.
‘With 64,5% of candidates passing the first sitting of the ITC for the year, SAICA would like to congratulate each of them for their dedication and sheer determination in rising to the challenge at hand. These candidates had to overcome immeasurable odds to pass, and they lived up to the task,’ says Freeman Nomvalo, CEO of SAICA.
A breakdown of the results reveals that the candidates who made up this 64,5% pass rate completed their studies at the following types of institutions:
| Number of institutions | Pass rate | |
| Overall results | 19 | 64,5% |
| SAICA-accredited academic providers − residential | 16 | 83,5% |
| SAICA-accredited academic providers − distance | 3 | 40,8% |
Detailed statistics can be found on the SAICA website: www.saica.org.za.
Thuthuka students shine
SAICA is particularly pleased with the overall results of its Thuthuka students and what these results reveal about the profession’s ongoing transformation achievements. Having put considerable ‘skin in the game’ to ensure the success of its Thuthuka beneficiaries, SAICA is delighted to announce that Thuthuka students achieved an 86,8% pass rate for this exam.
It is well publicised that the chartered accountancy profession aims to ‘create a constant flow of suitably qualified accounting professionals who represent the racial and gender composition of the country’. Much of this work is done through SAICA’s Thuthuka programme, which supports the studies of over 1 000 African and Coloured students every year.
Having surpassed the racial pass rate of all candidates this, says Nomvalo, is ‘testament to the great lengths Thuthuka and its university programme managers took to ensure that funded students had access to additional support resources to enable an optimum study environment, despite the challenges presented by the pandemic during 2020’.
In addition, SAICA is also encouraged by the fact that 60% of total passes for the April 2021 sitting of the ITC were made up of African (39%), Coloured (7%) and Indian (14%) students. While we celebrate these results, we remain concerned about the significant gap between the pass rate of African and White candidates.
What is the ITC and what does it measure?
The ITC is the first of two professional qualifying examinations university graduates must pass to become CAs(SA). Annually, there are two sittings of the ITC. It tests the integrated application of technical competence that candidates develop during the academic programme. The ITC assesses a candidate’s ability to evaluate the underlying problems in each scenario and, through critical thinking, applies the theoretical knowledge they have gained through the academic programme.
To pass the ITC, candidates must obtain an overall pass mark of 50% (and must get a sub-minimum of at least 40% in three of the four professional papers). Below is the racial demographic table of the April 2021 results.
| By race | Total | Failed | Passed | % Pass |
| African | 1 899 | 916 | 983 | 51,8% |
| Coloured | 254 | 79 | 175 | 68,9% |
| Indian | 558 | 204 | 354 | 63,4% |
| White | 1 165 | 176 | 989 | 84,9% |
| Race not disclosed | 11 | 5 | 6 | 54,5% |
| Grand total | 3 887 | 1 380 | 2 507 | 64,5% |
Detailed statistics can be found on the SAICA website: www.saica.org.za.
It is also worth noting that of the 983 African candidates who passed, almost one third (315) are distance learning candidates emanating from UNISA. This is a significant contribution to the profession’s transformation objectives. SAICA, through its Transformation and Growth department, is working closely with UNISA to develop programmes to further assist its students in improving their success.
A special note of congratulation to the April 2021 ITC Top 10
As outlined above, candidates must obtain an overall mark of 50% to pass. Yet some excel and go on to earn a spot in SAICA’s prestigious top candidate list. This is an impressive achievement limited to the ten top candidates who, to qualify, must obtain a pass mark of 70% or more for the examination. The Top 10 candidates all achieved this with honours (more than 75%).
These candidates are:
| Position | Name |
| 1 | Hanne Mertens |
| 2 | Christi-Ann du Toit |
| 3 | Meera Ranchod |
| 4 | Naushaad Maharaj |
| 5 | Natasha de Wet |
| 6 | Sadiyah Wahab |
| 7 | Alexa Sikiotis |
| 8 | Cameron Rencken |
| 9 | Cayley Tarr |
| 10 | Stefano Filippi |
Nomvalo extended SAICA’s congratulations to all the successful candidates: ‘Well done to the successful ITC candidates. The destiny of hard work is success. You have worked hard and the amount of time and effort you have invested shows. We know that you will hold yourself to the same standards of excellence as you progress in completing your training contract and work towards passing your final professional exam, the APC. We look forward to celebrating with you when you have completed your remaining requirements to register as a CA(SA).’
Calling on repeat candidates to persevere when re-writing the ITC later this year, Nomvalo stated: ‘I encourage candidates who are required to repeat the examination to continue working hard and not to give up. As prospective CAs(SA), you have several opportunities to pass the exam and there are many support programmes available to assist you. Many of the CAs(SA) you meet in the workplace did not pass their qualifying exams on their first attempt but, like them, you could be successful on your next attempt.’
Let’s meet the Top 10 candidates
Natasha de Wet
Training office: RAIN Chartered Accountants
Position: Trainee
What inspired you to become one of the Top 10?
I have always believed in giving my 110%. Aim for the moon: even if you miss, you will land among the stars.
What were the challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
At first when lockdown started, there was no structured plan for remote learning as is now in place and various teaching methods/plans had to be implemented to adapt to the ‘new normal’. I was scared and unsure what the rest of my CTA year would look like.
Adapting to remote learning was a challenge. It also meant not going through the difficulties of CTA with your friends and feeling isolated. The biggest challenge was balancing what was going on in the world, circumstances straight out of a horror movie and the fear of getting sick, while staying focused on your studies. Advantages were more flexibility and the ability to re-watch lecture videos.
To which factors do you credit your ITC achievement?
First, God, who showers me with blessings and favour: 2 Corinthians 12:9: ‘My Grace is all you need, My Power works best in weakness.’ Second, a good support structure. Third, a good foundation – working hard continually from undergrad through CTA.
Your advice for those preparing for the ITC exams?
Start studying early, set up a proper study plan, do previous papers, and remember application is important.
Your training experience at RAIN Chartered Accountants?
It has been a pleasant experience. I am fortunate to work at a firm where I am truly ‘seen’ and accepted. I am more than just a trainee but considered part of the family.
The importance of a support structure during exam preparations?
This journey is too difficult to walk alone. There will be a lot of failures, times when you feel like giving up, tears, and setbacks. Having people by your side who will pick you up, dust you off and carry you across the finishing line is an absolute must have. My cheerleaders are my parents, my fiancé, friends and colleagues.
Your definition of integrity?
Being truthful in your words and actions, doing what you know is right even when no one is watching.
Some of your career highlights?
- Passing CTA cum laude
- The first client I visited alone and checked in at security as ‘The Auditor’
- Being given leadership roles and responsibilities
- Participating in outreaches with my firm
Stef Filippi, 25
Training office: Deloitte
Position: Audit trainee
What inspired you to become one of the Top 10?
I have been blessed with a talent for accounting and this has inspired me to work hard and grow that talent. Furthermore, my enjoyment of accounting has driven my motivation to push academic limits.
What were the challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
I could manage my time effectively which allowed for efficient studying. I also had a designated study area which allowed me to intensify my level of focus. I strive to keep a balanced lifestyle but unfortunately lockdown caused an imbalance in this regard and I had to adapt accordingly.
To which factors do you credit your ITC achievement?
My conscious effort of striking a balance between the various facets of my life. Furthermore, I find accounting very interesting, which makes learning easier.
Your advice for those preparing for the ITC exams?
Ensure that a good lifestyle balance is created and maintained. Work hard when you feel that you are most effective so that you get the most out of your study sessions. Lastly, actively search for topics within the curriculum which you find interesting to make studying more enjoyable for yourself.
Your training experience at Deloitte?
I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience thus far. I have been exposed to various clients and learned a lot about how companies in different industries operate. I look forward to what the future holds at Deloitte!
The importance of a support structure during exam preparations?
It is vital as the pressure is immense and it can create a significant burden to carry alone. My support structure is my awesome wife who has been with me for the last eight years.
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
The CA(SA) is the pinnacle financial designation and in high demand locally and globally. South African education and training standards are particularly high and challenging in comparison to the rest of the world, giving CAs(SA) an edge. Holding a CA(SA) title requires a lot of sacrifice, dedication and hard work and it is because of this that the chartered accounting profession is regarded as premier.
Some of your career highlights?
- BAcc LLB (cum laude) at the University of Stellenbosch
- BAcc Honours (cum laude) at the University of Stellenbosch
- ITC Top 10
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Naushaad Maharaj, 24
Training office: UCT/PwC
Position: Academic trainee
What inspired you to become one of the Top 10?
A mix of wanting to make my lecturers’/colleagues’ efforts, family support and my own time and effort payoff not only in the exam, but also in a future in accounting and business.
The challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
The challenges were mainly focus and motivation. We had no set schedule or live online sessions, which made a big difference; the workplan was completely our own to structure, and at the start of online learning, it was easy to call it a day and take a break.
However, the advantage was having a bit more time in the day due to less travel, and the ability to structure my workplan to my own sleeping pattern and productivity.
To which factors do you credit your ITC achievement?
The effort of the teaching teams at UCT, family support, especially my parents, and my drive and desire for producing quality work.
Your advice to those preparing for the ITC exams?
First, ensure you continuously revise your content for technical proficiency, keep revisiting principles, and focus on trouble areas. Second, ask questions, engage and use resources to fix those areas.
Your training experience at UCT?
It has been a surreal and rewarding experience. I have been exposed to teaching from the other perspective and given the ability to make a difference and pass on what I know to the students.
The importance of a support structure during exam preparations?
While you do a lot of work yourself, it requires people around you to be understanding and supportive of the effort you need to give, and people you can turn to when things are not so great.
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
The learning journey shapes you, your business perception and your decision-making. Apart from technical concepts, you are exposed to issues, dilemmas, and changing times, allowing you to skill yourself and make decisions that impact businesses and the people who depend on those establishments.
Your definition of integrity?
To be honest in all engagements/activities and to keep to your word and deliver on the promises you make.
Some of your career highlights?
- Teaching over 1 000 students from first year to PGDA/CTA year
- ITC Top 10
- National radio awards for news-reading and hosting
Sadiyah Wahab, 22
Training office: Stellenbosch University
Position: Academic trainee
What inspired you to become one of the Top 10?
I was once told that you should aim for the moon so that if you fall, you land among the stars. I put my all into everything I set my mind to, and ITC was no different. What kept me motivated was knowing that the consistent hard work and sacrifice would pay off once I received the CA(SA) designation and the prestige that come with it.
The challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
Lockdown became quite lonely and repetitive − wake up, study, eat and repeat. I found that I was focused more on surviving the situation rather than thriving, making it quite easy to feel stuck and unmotivated.
However, lockdown had more advantages for me as a student, since CTA demands so much of you. The only thing to do was study since there was nothing much else you could do. I could work at my own pace, watch my lectures from the comfort of my room and re-watch lectures when I missed something. It also helped me learn to adapt to new circumstances and pursue new hobbies.
To which factors do you credit your ITC achievement?
All the time and energy I put into this journey, resilience and always seeking guidance in everything that surrounds me, from my religion to my family and friends.
Your training experience so far?
It has provided me with the opportunity to sharpen my technical knowledge and adapt to dynamic circumstances such as lecturing in person or online (and mastering the relevant technology).
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
‘CA(SA)’ commands respect; it conveys a person’s commitment to something more than just academic excellence, it signifies hard work, dedication and resilience – qualities I would like to possess.
Your definition of integrity?
It goes beyond being truthful and honest: it encompasses empathy, honour, staying headstrong/steadfast in your beliefs even when nobody is watching, courage and, most importantly, selflessness.
Some of your career highlights?
Obtaining a cum laude in my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, spending one of the three years of articles as an academic trainee, and achieving honours in the ITC.
Meera Ranchod, 24
Training office: KPMG
Position: Trainee accountant
What inspired your Top 10 achievement?
I have always aimed to do everything to the best of my ability. I enjoy setting goals for myself and work consistently towards achieving them.
The challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
The lack of face-to-face communication and interaction with peers, lecturers and tutors was one of the main challenges. This greatly impacted my learning experience and I had to adapt to learning and communicating remotely.
The main advantage was that I was able to work at my own pace and could structure my day and study timetable according to my own convenience. Also saving time that would have otherwise been spent travelling to and from campus every day.
Factors to which you credit your ITC achievement?
Hard work, dedication, and sheer determination to pass the exam and achieve my goal of becoming a CA(SA). My family and friends also played a huge role in encouraging me and motivating me to persevere when things got tough, and supported me immensely throughout my academic journey. The great academic team at UCT also provided exceptional support and prepared us well for the ITC exam.
Your advice for those preparing for the ITC exams?
Work hard and put in the hours to prepare and revise the work. Keep on persevering even when you feel like giving up. But also take regular breaks and make time to do things you enjoy.
In addition, consistently practise past ITC papers under time pressure. Stay up to date with the accounting standards and the latest developments in the world to be able to integrate your theoretical knowledge into real world situations.
Your training experience at KPMG?
It has been excellent, with thorough, regular training sessions scheduled for various technical and professional skills. This has greatly helped me in improving my knowledge of audit and various sectors, industries, and the general business field. The support and coaching from the partners, managers and senior trainees have greatly contributed towards my development, growth and knowledge as a working professional.
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
The opportunities available with the CA(SA) designation are endless. It allows you to work in any industry and sector and gives you the flexibility to choose the direction your career takes.
Your definition of integrity?
Being honest and trustworthy. I believe integrity is always doing the right thing no matter how difficult the situation may be. Upholding your moral values and ethical principles.
Alexa Sikiotis, 23
Training office: KPMG
Position: Trainee accountant
What inspired you to become one of the Top 10?
I have had a dream of making the Top 10 since I started my CA(SA) journey. Over the years as I progressed and excelled academically, that dream started to become a reality.
The challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
The shift from in-person learning to online learning was incredibly challenging at first, as it disrupted my usual routine. However, once getting used to it, studying became easier as I could work at my own pace. Our lecturers also made the transition smoother by recording re-playable lectures and offering virtual webinars to aid our learning.
To which factors do you credit your ITC achievement?
I owe it to a village of individuals who supported and motivated me throughout my studies. Hard work and determination only get you so far, and without the support of my incredible family and friends, my brilliant lecturers from UJ and the glory of God, my success in this exam would have never been possible.
What advice would you give to others preparing for the exam?
Believe in yourself; you are more capable than you think! Set yourself a study schedule and stick to it, but don’t forget to also give yourself a break. Keep pushing, a few months of hard work will result in a lifetime of rewards.
Your training experience at KPMG?
It has been incredibly rewarding so far. I have been able to work with some awesome individuals on high-profile clients and have developed greatly on a professional level as a result.
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
It is globally renowned and opens a multitude of doors to different career opportunities. It is a well-respected designation that has a substantial amount of influential and highly successful members. It will give me great pride to add the CA(SA) title to my name.
Your definition of integrity?
Faith, integrity, respect and excellence are the principles that I live by. My definition of integrity is a person who is strong in their moral convictions of being honest and ethical in every aspect of their lives.
Some of your career highlights?
- Making the ITC Top 10
- Working on high-profile audit engagements and collaborating with diverse individuals
- Representing UJ at the University Scholars Leadership Symposium at the United Nations in Thailand
- Achieving my degree and CTA cum laude and graduating top of my CTA class
Cameron Rencken, 22
Training office: PwC
Position: Trainee
What inspired your Top 10 achievement?
I always try to give my best and therefore just applied that throughout my preparation for these exams.
The disadvantages of studying during lockdown?
It wasn’t so much the ‘studying’ during lockdown that was challenging, but rather the times not studying as we could not do the usual everyday tasks and social events that help so much to stay refreshed and give a much-needed break from work.
Factors to which you credit your achievement?
The biggest factor would be consistent work throughout my studies to try and grasp the underlying concepts and ideas to ensure and allow me to apply it to situations that were new or unfamiliar.
Your advice for those preparing for the next ITC exams?
You have studied for a number or years and written multiple exams on all the different topics – and therefore the main thing is to back yourself because you know much more than you think.
Your training experience so far at PwC?
It has been awesome. The training and guidance I have received from the firm has made the transition easy and will stand me in good stead for the rest of my first year and the years to come.
The importance of having a support structure during exams?
My support structure has definitely been my family. I think the best support has just them being there in the none work times to chat to, to do stuff with, have meals with and relax with – just being there to take your mind off studies and again to ensure we are refreshed for when we do work.
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
The CA(SA) profession has always been held in high regard both locally and internationally. It is recognised by many people as a respectable designation. Personally, I think that it offers a holistic and well-rounded business education and that the articles programme allows the opportunity to learn about the various aspects of multiple different businesses in a variety of industries.
Your definition of integrity?
For me, integrity is quite simple. It comprises two parts: doing the right thing even if it is unpopular or against that which may benefit oneself, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
Christi-Ann du Toit, 22
Training office: NWU/EY
Position: Academic trainee
What inspired you to become one of the Top 10?
This verse is my inspiration: Matthew 5:14−16 − ‘You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.’
The challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
The challenge on the ITC preparation was that we only wrote in April. It was very difficult to balance working and studying.
To which factors do you credit your ITC achievement?
First, all glory to God, I couldn’t do it without Him. Also, the Bible teaches us to persevere and to do everything with excellence. Working hard from high school up to now were building blocks that contributed to the outcome of my ITC exam. It is a marathon, not a sprint. My husband, family and friends helped me to keep a healthy balance between academics and life. In addition, my dedicated lecturers at the NWU, whose passion for their work is contagious.
Your advice for those preparing for the ITC exams?
Knowledge and studying hard are important building blocks, but the foundation is your emotional and physical health. Your mindset is another foundational pillar. Also spend time to solidify your foundation. With that in mind, the secret to ending this marathon successfully is to work hard from the very beginning of the journey.
Your training experience at NWU?
It is a rewarding experience: I have learned and grown so much.
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
CA(SA) will always be a premier designation to pursue. There are very few professions where the public look up to the professionals and trust them to have their best interests at heart.
Your definition of integrity?
Always do what is right and ethical, even if no one is watching and even if no one will ever know.
Some of your career highlights?
Giving my first formal lecture to the honours students and just experiencing the moment they grasp a concept or learn something new. Those lightbulb moments when a concept just clicks for a student. All the positive feedback that I have received from my students. And being in the Top 10 for the ITC.
Cayley Tarr, 22
Training office: Deloitte Cape Town
Position: Audit assistant trainee
What inspired you to become one of the Top 10?
I always aim to do my best in my studies; being in the Top 10 was a bonus.
Challenges and advantages of studying during lockdown?
The greatest challenge was that there was no peer learning. It’s also very lonely to study by oneself, which impacted my motivation. The advantage was being able to work at a pace that suited me. I could spend longer on more difficult topics and move faster through easier topics.
To which factors do you credit your ITC achievement?
Consistent work over a longer period rather than hard work in a short space of time.
Your advice for those preparing for the ITC exams?
Take breaks from work and do things that you love − being burnt out will get you nowhere.
Your training experience at Deloitte?
The team is friendly and understands the importance of coaching, which has made my first six months a very positive, worthwhile experience.
The importance of a support structure during exam preparations?
It is important for my mental space to be around people I can talk to during a difficult time, or even just to get out of the house with. The build-up to these exams was long and stressful, with COVID-19 making everyone more worried. Having a support system was pivotal to my success.
Your cheerleaders?
My close friends and family.
Why did you choose the CA(SA) route?
Being a CA(SA) opens many doors. The road to becoming a CA(SA) teaches one a lot about business but also about the soft skills required to maintain good business relationships and apply one’s knowledge in different scenarios. Chartered accountants are well-rounded, smart-thinking business leaders, and are integral to the lives of companies.
Your definition of integrity?
Integrity is being honest and living one’s values, but, most importantly, acting in a way that positively impacts society as a whole.
Your career highlights?
Being able to sign off on a small component audit that I had completed all by myself. This signified all that I have learnt in the past six months.
