“It is an experience that goes far beyond academics”
Rinae Mauda from South Africa decided to take a break from her professional career as a Chartered Accountant to pursue a master’s in accounting and auditing for sustainable business management at Kristianstad University. A decision she describes as one of the most rewarding she has ever made.
Sustainability was an important factor when Rinae Mauda chose where to continue her studies.
– The programme stood out because it combined accounting and auditing with sustainability, which felt both relevant and forward-looking, says Rinae Mauda.
Applying knowledge to real-world challenges
Rinae describes the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) as one of the highlights of her studies. For five months, she and a fellow student worked with a Swedish small and medium-sized enterprise on sustainability.
– It was a fantastic opportunity to apply what we were learning in class to real-world challenges. We visited the company several times and worked directly with the CEO and employees to understand the company’s approach to sustainable business. It gave me a deeper appreciation of how sustainability can be embedded into everyday business practices.
Group work was an important part of the programme. Working with students from different backgrounds taught Rinae a lot about collaboration and adapting to different perspectives.
– The learning environment was rigorous but supportive. Teachers gave us space to think independently but were always there when guidance was needed. Fellow students were supportive, and we often helped each other through deadlines, which made the journey feel shared rather than solitary.
More than academic knowledge
The international environment also became an important part of Rinae’s experience. She formed friendships with students from Europe, Asia and Africa, and learning about different cultures added another dimension to her studies.
– Sharing meals, stories and laughter gave me a sense of belonging that made the experience richer than any textbook could.
The programme also gave Rinae more than new academic knowledge. She strengthened her research and communication skills and developed her ability to adapt to new environments and cultures.
– Perhaps most importantly, I learned resilience and the value of balance. Lessons that go far beyond the classroom.
Bringing new perspectives back to South Africa
After graduation, Rinae Mauda plans to take the knowledge and experiences she gained in Sweden back home to South Africa. Her goal is to work with organisations and contribute to sustainable business strategies that create long-term value.
– Having seen how sustainability is embraced in Sweden, I feel ready to bring that mindset into the South African context. Working with businesses to balance profitability with responsibility.
For those considering applying to the programme, Rinae’s advice is simple:
– Go for it! It is an experience that goes far beyond academics – it is about growth, friendships and memories you will carry with you long after graduation. I also loved experiencing the different seasons in Sweden, from summer walks and sunsets to seeing snow for the first time.
