Financial services attracting more students

With growing numbers of students signing up for studies that will prepare them for a career in financial services, universities are teaming up with the private sector to provide hands-on courses and lectures that compliment the academic curriculum.

“The idea is to provide students with practical insight into what’s involved in the exciting world of finance,” says Daniel Putra (pictured), Managing Director of Computer Science Software, the developer of PROFIDA Financial Planning Software.

Computer Science Software sponsors the use of PROFIDA by lecturers and students in the University of Johannesburg’s three-year BCom Finance and Investment degree, after which graduates can pursue an honours degree in financial planning.

This degree isaccredited by the Financial Planning Institute (FPI). In addition, an honours degree with a minimum of 60% in the case study exam provides the education requirements for the highly regardedCertified Financial Planner^®qualification.

Growing numbers of students have enrolled for this course, which uses PROFIDA’s software to assist with balance sheets and retirement and estate planning analysis.

Paul Snyman, Head of the Department at the University of Johannesburg, explains that: “Last year's course included unit trusts and share investments. Third year students worked in groups of six or seven, developing a major case study using PROFIDA before presenting a financial plan.”

Putra says that corporate social responsibility is an integral part of his company’s business strategy. “Our focus is on education and we are proud to be able to contribute to the development of tomorrow’s professional financial advisers. “