New department leaders set vision for academic excellence and graduate success

The Faculty of Economics and Finance at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has welcomed two newly appointed Heads of Department who are set to strengthen academic excellence, student success, research and industry collaboration. Their appointments will strengthen the Faculty’s efforts to achieve its strategic goals and prepare graduates for success in a rapidly evolving professional environment.

Sibongiseni Sondzaba Heads of Department play a critical leadership role at TUT and within the Faculty of Economics and Finance. They provide academic and strategic direction, drive teaching and learning excellence, strengthen research and innovation, promote student success and foster meaningful partnerships with industry and professional bodies. They also ensure that academic programmes remain relevant and responsive to the needs of society and the economy.

The Faculty appointed Sibongiseni Sondzaba as Head of the Department of Finance and Investment and Fezile Ncongwane as returning Head of the Department of Accounting.

Sibongiseni Sondzaba, Head of the Department of Finance and Investment, takes on the role for the first time. Holding a Master's in Business Studies from the Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences in Finland, he aims to build an internationally connected department and secure professional accreditation with the Financial Planning Institute (FPI). He also plans to establish a graduate placement pipeline and develop an incubator and entrepreneurial graduate strategy to create opportunities for graduates.

Sondzaba outlined several priorities that will guide the department's growth.

“My priorities include re-energising the Departmental Advisory Board, pursuing formal collaboration frameworks with established industry partners and contributing to the Faculty Strategic Implementation Plan, particularly the strategic imperatives that focus on advancing the Faculty’s research objectives,” he said.

He added that collaboration with colleagues will be central to ensuring that the department stays relevant, maintains strong industry connections and supports the Faculty’s broader strategic goals.

Sondzaba described his appointment as a career highlight and an opportunity to contribute to the Faculty’s continued academic success.

Fezile Ncongwane Fezile Ncongwane, Head of the Department of Accounting, returns to a familiar leadership role. She holds an MCom in Taxation and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Studies in Accounting. Her vision is to position the department as a leading centre of excellence in accounting education, research, innovation and community engagement.

Ncongwane emphasised the importance of collaboration with professional and industry bodies to ensure that graduates enter the workplace equipped with relevant skills and knowledge.

“My immediate priority as Head of the Department is to strengthen academic quality, enhance research productivity and promote a collaborative departmental culture. I will focus on ensuring the relevance of programmes and being responsive to the evolving needs of the accounting profession, particularly in areas such as digital transformation, sustainability and professional accreditation requirements,” she said.

Drawing on her previous experience as HoD, Ncongwane said staff development will remain one of her key priorities. She intends to support academic staff through mentorship and research capacity-building initiatives.

Ncongwane also highlighted student success as a strategic focus area. She plans to strengthen academic, professional and personal support for students throughout their studies.

“Key strategies will include the early identification of at-risk students through continuous monitoring of attendance, assessment performance and engagement on digital learning platforms. This will allow for timely interventions such as academic advising, tutoring, supplemental instruction and mentorship programmes,” she said.

As they begin their new terms, both HoDs have committed themselves to strengthening student success, advancing research excellence and producing future-ready graduates who can make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities.