Breaking Barriers and Fostering Diversity: UNISA Professor’s Trailblazing Achievements in African Accounting Research

In a groundbreaking collaboration that transcends borders, Professor Cameron Modisane, the Deputy Executive Dean of the College of Accounting Sciences at the University of South Africa (UNISA) and his mentee, Professor Joseph Kwasi Agyemang, have achieved a remarkable milestone in advancing African accounting research. Professor Modisane, a trailblazer himself, having been the first black person in South Africa to attain a PhD in accounting before the age of 35, expresses immense pride in the success of Professor Agyemang’s PhD in Accounting Sciences.

The focal point of their achievement lies in a comprehensive study that delves into the financial sustainability of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in Ghana. Professor Modisane emphasizes the significance of their scholarly partnership, highlighting how the study contributes to the body of knowledge and provides valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to enhance financial sustainability in the public sector.

Motivated by a passion for addressing the limited research in the public sector, Professor Modisane’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the academic realm is evident. He envisions a collaborative effort between the University of Eswatini and UNISA to cultivate a new generation of accounting scholars, focusing on African epistemology and indigenous knowledge systems.

The challenges encountered during Professor Agyemang’s PhD journey, particularly in decision-making processes and data collection from the public sector, underscore the dedication required to overcome obstacles in academic pursuits. Professor Modisane praises Agyemang’s commendable perseverance and diligence, emphasizing how their collaborative efforts systematically addressed challenges, leading to the timely completion of the doctoral research study.

Looking ahead, Professor Modisane outlines ambitious plans for future collaborations with Professor Agyemang, including the production of research articles aimed at high-impact academic journals. Their shared vision extends beyond academic excellence, intending to make a significant global impact in the realm of African accounting research. Professor Modisane urges aspiring scholars to persist in their dreams, challenging accepted norms and exploring new possibilities in African accounting research.

As the Deputy Executive Dean of UNISA’s College of Accounting Sciences, Professor Modisane manages a diverse team of over 200 individuals, playing a pivotal role in shaping strategic direction, teaching and learning, research and innovation, and academic citizenship. His involvement in supervising master's and PhD students across various accounting disciplines showcases his commitment to nurturing the next generation of accounting scholars.

In conclusion, the collaborative success of Professors Modisane and Agyemang not only breaks barriers in African accounting research but also sets a compelling precedent for future generations of scholars. Their dedication to diversity, inclusivity, and pushing the boundaries of accepted norms positions them as trailblazers, poised to make a significant impact in the global landscape of African accounting research