By Reatlegile Ratlagane
The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) proudly joined South Africa’s auditing elite at the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Annual National Conference, using the platform to spotlight its growing range of postgraduate qualifications and deepen ties with the auditing profession.
Hosted at the Sandton Convention Centre from 11 to 13 August 2025, the three-day gathering marked IIA’s 28th National Conference themed “The Next Chapter: Innovate, Integrate and Accelerate.” The event drew auditing professionals from across the country and neighbouring countries, offering a dynamic space for knowledge-sharing, networking and professional growth.
During the opening session, delegates were reminded that this year’s theme is a call to action for all of us to raise new ideas, foster collaboration and drive the profession forward in a rapidly changing world. It is an opportunity to be inspired, challenge the status quo and remain at the forefront of the profession.
The conference welcomed auditors representing diverse specializations, including risk, internal, tax and IT auditing. Exhibitors ranged from corporate stakeholders to academic institutions, with TUT’s Faculty of Economics and Finance’s Department of Internal Auditing standing out for their focus on postgraduate development. The University used the platform not only to promote academic excellence but also to engage alumni, strengthen industry partnerships and gather valuable professional insights.
Adding a student voice, Tshifhiwa Thavhanyedza - Internal Auditing Master’s student at TUT and IIA South Africa Committee Member - encouraged undergraduates to take advantage of opportunities such as the IIA Siyakhula Programme. “Student members can gain free access to events like the upcoming student conference in September. It is a valuable way to connect with peers, grow networks and gain real industry exposure,” he emphasised.
For both seasoned professionals and emerging talent, the conference proved to be a hub of inspiration and collaboration, underscoring the vital link between academia and industry in shaping the future of auditing.
The IIA 28th Annual National Conference
TUT stall at the IIA National Conference
TUT Internal Auditing alumni at the IIA National Conference