Exploring Reflections of Lecturers on Ethics in the Accounting Curriculum: A Case Study of Ukzn and Unizulu, South Africa

Abstract

The accounting profession has changed considerably over the past twenty years or so. This has led to the new accounting curriculum undergoing many changes such as increased financial fraud coverage, laws relating to financial crime and globalisation and financial security issues. However, there have been many financial scandals in the 21^st century in the African and American context. Several notable incidents of ethical misconduct such as Enron, Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG), and Satyam (which negatively impact the world economy) are examples of misuse of accounting to cover the truth. Lack of ethics is believed to be responsible for most of these scandals. This study, therefore, aims at understanding the reflections on the issue of ethics in teaching accounting. The study followed a case study approach and involved a small sample of accounting lecturers from UKZN and UNIZULU. The study's findings suggest that special topical issues on ethics should be taught in each accounting course. For example, in the auditing course, ethical procedures should be touched upon, and students should be sensitized about accountants' ethical behaviour.