PUPILS under the Siyakhula project spearheaded by auditing firm Deloitte & Touche have been praised for achieving A symbols in last year's matric exams.

Project coordinator Nerisha Haricharan, an audit manager at Deloitte, said she was delighted with the pupils' outstanding achievements.

Out of 145 Siyakhula pupils who wrote matric last year, 14 achieved A symbols in accounting and 20 achieved A symbols in other subjects.

The Siyakhula project is not restricted to accounting, but the focus is on this area and on encouraging pupils to become charteredaccountants.

Haricharn said it was rewarding to witness the pupils' dedication andcommitment.

"It is only their hard work that allows them to succeed and we are glad we can help," Haricharan said.

"Although we mainly teach accounting, we also give computer lessons and conduct a life skills workshop."

Lungisa Sokhela of Umlazi Comprehensive Technical High School and Joshane Moneval of Umbilo Secondary School are two of the top Siyakhula project pupils in the Class of 2009.

Sokhela attained five As, and they both achieved As in accounting.

Sokhela will pursue her first love, law, and has enrolled at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Moneval has been offered a bursary and has also enrolled at UKZN to study BCom Accounting.

Haricharan said their facilitators were volunteers, many of whom are Deloitte trainees, who provide extra lessons in accounting and computer skills.

"They endeavor to promote awareness of the accounting profession and inspire learners to rise above their circumstances."

"In doing this, learners are confident to dream big and soar high, knowing they have a helping hand."