FIELD WORK REPORT

ACCOUNTING IN REVENUE COLLECTION & TAXATION

CONDUCTED AT
Tanzania Revenue Authority (T.R.A)
PLACEMENT
Mbeya regional office

PRESENTED BY
CHACHA, Joseph .P.

REGISTRATION NO:
BA / 0182 / T.2012

SUPERVISED: BY
Mr. Kidugala Malimi
DURATION
7/7/2014 - 30/9/2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT................................................................................................................................... i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSjjjiiiiiiii...............................................................................................ii
DECRALATION...........................................................................................................................iii
LIST OF ABBREVEATIONS:......................................................................................................iv

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 THE ORGANIZATION..................................................................................................................................2
1.1.1 THE HISTORY OF TAXATION....................................................................................2-4
1.1.2 THE HISTORY OF ORGANIZATION ....................................................................... ...5
1.1.3 TYPES OF TAXES AND RATES CHARGED…………...………………………..……6
1.2 ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE………………………………………….…….…….……..7
1.2.1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS.............................................................................................8
1.2.2 OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE………………………………………………………....8-9
1.3 NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES………………………………………………………...….……9
1.4 ACTIVITIES PERFOMED.................................................................................................... 10
1.4.1 ASSESSING, COLLECTING AND ACCOUNTING.....................................................10
1.4.2 ADMINISTERING EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY ALL REVENUES……….10
1.4.3 ADVISING THE GOVERNMENT ON ALL MATTERS...............................................11
1.4.4 IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF SERVICES TO THE TAXPAYERS........................11
1.4.5 ELIMINATING FRAUD AND OTHER FORMS OF TAX EVASION..........................11
1.4.6 PRODUCE TRADE STATISTICS AND PUBLICATIONS.......................................... 11
1.5 LEVEL OF TECHNOLOGY………………………………………………....………..……12
1.5.1 INTERNET………………………………………………………………………….…..12
1.5.2 SOFTWARE…………………………………………………………………….………12
1.6 CUSTOMERS.........................................................................................................................13

CHAPTER TWO: ACTIVITIES PERFORMED

2.0 PLACEMENT IN THE ORGANIZATION............................................................................15
2.1 TASKS AND DUTIES PERFORMED...................................................................................15
2.1.1 RECORDING PAID TAXES............................................................................................15
2.1.2 BANK RECONCILIATION.............................................................................................16
2.1.3 ASSISTANCE IN FINALISING REPORTS....................................................................16
2.1.4 CORRECTION OF ERRORS...........................................................................................16
2.1.5 CASTING..........................................................................................................................17
2.2 WORK ENVIRONMENT..................................................................................................17-18
2.3 DEGREE OF INTEREST IN THE TASKS PERFORMED...................................................18
2.4 EXPECTATIONS BEFORE THE TRAINING.................................................................19-20
2.5 DEGREE OF MEETING DEMANDS OF DUTIES ASSIGNED..........................................20
2.6 NEW THINGS LEARNED FROM THE ORGANIZATION...........................................20-21
2.7 PROBLEMS FACED IN EXECUTING TASKS...................................................................22
2.8 GAPS BETWEEN THEORY AND PRACTICE..............................................................22-23
2.9 EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS..............................................................................................24
2.10 THE RELEVANCE OF ATTACHMENT............................................................................25

CHAPTER THREE: CONCLUSION AND RECCOMENDATION

3.0 CONCLUSION................................................................................................................27-28
3.1 RECOMMENDATIONS.........................................................................................................29
3.1.1 NARROWING THE GAPS IN THEORY AND PRACTICE.......................................29-30
3.1.2 HANDLING GAPS IN THE PLACEMENT PROCESS...............................................30-31
ABSTRACT

This report is written as a result of the Practical Training I carried out in as an

essential prerequisite for Award of the Degree of Bachelor of Accountancy

provided at the Institute of accountancy Arusha

This report is written in harmony with the “Guidelines for Practical Training for

Bachelor Degree Students” as revised and to be followed by all students

pursuing their career in bachelor of Accountancy

I acquired my training from an organization of Tanzania Revenue Authority,

which is located in Mbeya, Tanzania.

As the issued Guidelines directed, the report is divided into Four Main Chapters

which cover The first chapter with overalls introduction, The second chapter

which consists of Activities Performed, The third Chapter which Concludes the

report findings and eventual the fourth and last chapter outlaying

recommendation and references

It is my hope that whosoever reads this report will find its flow convenient and

beneficial.

CHACHA Joseph .P BA/O182/T.2012 Institute of accountancy Arusha i

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to give my sincere thanks to the employees of Tanzania Revenue

Authority Mbeya who supported me through their contribution by providing

relevant information i needed for the research study. Also

My special thanks should be addressed to my supervisor, Malimi Kilugala for

their support to me in the fulfilment of this report and make it presentable as it

appears.

I should not forget paying thanks to my field supervisors, Mr. Ditram Willad and

John Ng’wigulu (Account and Customs Department), for their contribution to my

report.

All in all special thanks should go to my family, Relatives and friends for assisting

me in many ways God bless them all.

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DECRALATION

I CHACHA JOSEPH .P , declare that, except where references are made, this report

is a result of my own effort and initiatives which have been planned, organized

and presented without plagiarism and it has never been submitted in any other

academic institute for an award or in otherwise.

Candidate’s Signature…………………………………………………………….

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LIST OF ABBREVEATIONS:

T.R.A- Tanzania Revenue Authority

I.A.A- Institute of accountancy Arusha

B.A -Bachelor in Accountanancy

I-Tax -Information Tax

N.M.B-National microfinance bank

I.C.T – Information Communications Technology

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 Chapter 1

Chapter 1.
Introduction

 The Organization
 Organization Structure
 Number of Employees
 Activities Performed
 Level of Technology
 Customers

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INTRODUCTION

Field practical training is one of the vital components in the Bachelor of Accountancy

programme in their second year of Degree program at I.A.A. It was intended for the

purpose of giving an opportunity, to the student to integrate together theory and practice.

The expected ending results of the field program are to enhance students’ skills, working

abilities, attitude towards their area of specialization and get exposed to managerial

decisions. This is my practical training report as it was conducted at Tanzania Reveue

Authority at Mbeya, from 8th of June to 27th of August 2014. It covers both the nature of

the organization, activities performed and recommendations.

1.1 THE ORGANIZATION

1.1.1 THE HISTORY OF TAXATION

Tax had been existed since early of the world. It was existed before Christ (BC)

years. The leadership of that period used to impose tax from their people due to

various transactions took place.

Tax in the form of Labour due the chief of tribe or clan has existed since time

immemorial. Taxation on its modern form was only introduced to Tanzania with

creation of money in the 9th century.

In 1888, Sultan Khalifa of Zanzibar granted a lease and specific rights to impose

taxes in mainland territories to German East African Company.

In 1898, however the first money based tax was imposed on the indigenous

population. This was a hut tax of one rupee per year on every hut.

In 1905, new regulations allowed for the charging of poll tax of like amount on adult

men, tax raised to three Rupees per year.

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After First World War (1914-1918), Tanganyika was put under British Government,

by that time Kenya and Uganda were already under British rule.

In 1940, Income Tax Law was introduced in Tanganyika by the way of Territory-

ordinance.

In 1948, the four ordinances were consolidated after the formation of East African

High Commission (EAHC). In 1952, the consolidated resulted into the East African

Income Tax Management (EAIM). In 1958, another Act was enacted to replace the

EAIM 1952.

In December 1973, the East African Income Tax department was split up, hence

Tanzania assumed responsibility for running its own independence Tax Department.

The tax reform initiatives in Tanzania may partly be considered as a response to

threatening of major fiscal crisis. This is reflected in the fact that, most of the

proposed and implemented tax reforms in Tanzania have been guided by the need

to increase revenues.

Substation efforts have already been made to improve taxation in Tanzania. Since

1969 there have been several tax reforms which have included:

1 Introduction to sales of tax in 1969

2 New income tax legislation in 1973

3 Amendment of the existing tax legislation to revise the tax bases and rates.

4 Abolition of some exercise duty in 1979 and export duty in 1985/86.

5 Re – introduction of previously abolished exercise duty in 1989.

In recognition of the continued poor performance of the tax system and the need to

look at the tax system as a whole, the government appointed a Tax Commission in

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October 1989. The commission’s major task was to study and review the central and

local government tax system and its administration, and make recommendation to

the government. Specifically, it was to recommend changes to the existing tax

system in order to:-

1. Widen the tax base.

2. Enhance revenue collection, and

3. Promote greater efficiency of production in the economy.

Consistent with the recommendations of the Tax Commission, various taxes were

simplified, and a number of tax rates were lowered in the financial year 1992/93

budget. However, it was also expected that those measures would yield additional

revenue due the tax rate reductions.

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1.1.2 THE HISTORY OF ORGANIZATION

The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) was established by Act of Parliament

Not. 11 of 1995, and started its operations on 1st July 1996. In carrying out its

statutory functions, TRA is regulated by law, and is responsible for administering

impartially various taxes of the Central Government. The Authority, which

administers a number of taxes, is under the general supervision of Board of

Directors.

During the 1996/97, the Government fiscal policy was set to enhance revenue collection

and improve expenditure management through expenditure control measures aiming at

restraining the fiscal deficit. On the revenue side the measures that were implemented

included the strengthening of tax administration through the establishment of the

Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA). The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) is a

government agency of Tanzania, charged with the responsibility of managing the

assessment, collection and accounting of all central government revenue. It is a

semi-autonomous body that operates in conjunction with the Ministry of Finance

and Economic Affairs under the general supervision of the Minister for Finance..

Offices of the TRA are located in throughout the regions of Tanzania with its

headquarters in Soloing Drive at Dar es Salaam hence also being present in

Zanzibar. The motto of the T.R.A is “together we build our nation”

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1.1.3 TYPES OF TAXES AND RATES CHARGED

A• Direct Taxes

- Personal Income Taxes

- Corporate Income Taxes

- Withholding Taxes on Capital incomes

• Direct taxes account for 30% of total tax revenue

B• Indirect Taxes

Levied on international trade transactions and domestically produced goods and services

and account for 70% of total tax revenue,

The tax structure has undergone significant reforms for fairness, simplicity, equity,

efficiency and taxpayer

• Direct Taxes

– Corporate Income Tax - 30%

– Withholding Taxes

• Dividends for company controlling 25% share or more - 10%

• Interest - 10%

• Royalties - 15%

• Indirect Taxes

– Value Added Tax - 20%

– Import Duty - 0%, 10%, or 25%

Excise duties are also chargeable on specific rate basis for all traditional excisable

products and a few select goods

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1.2 ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE

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1.2.1Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is the governing board of the Authority responsible for

formulation and implementation of the policy of the Authority. The Board consists of six

ex-officio members namely:

 The Chairman appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Minister

for Finance.

 The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance of the Union Governments.

 The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance of the Zanzibar Government.

 The Governor of the Bank of Tanzania.

 The Commissioner General of the Authority.

1.2.2 OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE

Tanzania Revenue Authority is a semi-autonomous agency of the Government,

responsible for the administration of the Central Government taxes as well as

several non-tax revenues. TRA is under the direction and control of a Board of

Directors, which is headed by a Chairman who is appointed by the President of

the United Republic of Tanzania. The board is responsible for the formulation

and implementation of the policies of the Tanzania Revenue Authority. It is also

responsible for advising the Minister for Finance on the fiscal policy of the

country and tax matters in particular. The Board consists of ten members

including the Chairman. Five members are ex-officio, that is, they sit on the

Board by virtue of their positions.

These are:

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(i) Permanent Secretary - Ministry of Finance (Union Government)

(ii) Principal Secretary - Ministry of Finance (Zanzibar Government).

(iii) Governor of the Bank of Tanzania.

(iv) Permanent Secretary- Presidents Office Planning and Privatization.

(v) Commissioner General of TRA.

In addition to the five ex-officio members, the Minister for Finance also appoints

from the public other members to the Board on the basis of their professional

knowledge, experience and competence in the relevant areas of finance,

commerce or economics. The tenure of office for the members is three years

and the non-ex-officio members can be re-appointed only once.

The Commissioner General is the Chief Executive of the Authority. He is

responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Authority subject to the general

supervision and control of the Board. The Commissioner General is assisted by

a Deputy Commissioner General and heads of departments in performing his

duties. Some Heads of Departments are in turn assisted by Deputy

Commissioners / Directors at the head office level.

1.3 NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

T.R.A has got the total number of 3,600 staffs throughout Tanzania. Each region in

Tanzania has got a T.R.A Branch so as to enhance effective de-centralized revenue

collection with the employees.

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1.4 ACTIVITIES PERFOMED

Services offered by T,R.A have been grouped according to its functions for effective

revenue management some of the services offered are like The major functions of the

Authority are to: -

 Assess, collect and account for all Central Government Revenue

 Administer effectively and efficiently all the revenue laws of the Central

Government

 Advise the Government on all matters related to fiscal policy

 Improve the quality of services to the taxpayers

 Counteract fraud and other forms of tax evasion

 Produce trade statistics and publications

1.4.1 ASSESSING, COLLECTING AND ACCOUNTING FOR ALL CENTRAL GOVERNMENT

REVENUE

T.R.A is established for collection of government revenues in the form of taxes; all the

required revenues should be fully collected and assessed hence should be recorded in

their respective accounts to keep track of all revenues

1.4.2 ADMINISTERING EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY ALL THE REVENUE LAWS OF

THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT

T.R.A as the central revenue authority should make sure that all the laws regarding tax

collection are to be followed by each individual or groups that are liable to pay taxes any

di obedience of the laws should have consequences like fines and penalties to the

respective party.

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1.4.3 ADVISING THE GOVERNMENT ON ALL MATTERS RELATED TO TAX POLICIES

The revenue authority should be able to advise the government of Tanzania if any

changes are to be made to the tax revenue policies so as to enhance effective revenue

collection and administration, such policies can be like raising or lowering tax rates due

to the economy so as to ensure tax payers are not over or under charged.

1.4.4 IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF SERVICES TO THE TAXPAYERS

Tax collection by T.R.A should be conducted in a smooth manner such that the tax

payers should not put in much of their efforts and time in the process, it should be

flexible through offering services like letting tax payers pay taxes through their phones

with m-pesa or facilitating electronic devices to tax payers to easily count taxes.

1.4.5 ELIMINATING FRAUD AND OTHER FORMS OF TAX EVASION

The Tanzania Revenue Authority should also create policies and methods to avoid fraud

in paying taxes and avoiding tax evasions so as to get much revenue for the government,

This can be facilitated by giving harsh penalties to those who are found guilty of these

illegal practices also it applies fair tax policies so as for each tax payer to be charged

fairly such as using the policy of P.A.Y.E

1.4.6 PRODUCE TRADE STATISTICS AND PUBLICATIONS

The rvenues collected from various palces in Tanzania by T.R.A are also used to produce

trade statistics and publications such may be like publishing high tax payers ofthe country

and making policies to moytivate them to contribute more taxes, also the statistics can be

used to show ifthe tax collections are rising or fallin over years.

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1.5 LEVEL OF TECHNOLOGY

The level of technology adapted by PwC Tanzania, in relation to its operation is highly

advanced. All staffs of the firm have been given the computers (laptops and desktops),

used by the workers to conduct the various works assigned to them. In ABAS line of

service, every accountant has a computer to assist him/her. However some of the works at

the firm done manually in the working papers, and some of the documents are maintained

in the files.

1.5.1 INTERNET

The staff’s computers have been connected with Internet, through Local Area Network

(LAN). This helps the staffs to do various office works and in communication with other

parts say clients, for the official purposes. The communication which is mainly in the

form of E-mails enables the staffs to get important valuable information for their duties.

1.5.2 SOFTWARE

The firm has the various programs used by its workers to do their work efficiently. For

instance the firm installs the program known as I-Tax, to all computers of the accountants

to assist them in the course of recording collected revenues

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1.6 CUSTOMERS

Customers of the Tanzanian Revenue authority are all taxpayers of Tanzania these are

such as employees who pay taxes, companies, retailers, Transporters, Exporters and

importers, Farmers, Financial institutions, Schools,E.t.c

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 Chapter 2

Chapter 2.
ACTIVITIES PERFORMED

 Placement in the Organization

 Tasks and Duties Performed
 Work Environment
 Degree of Interest in the Task Performed
 Expectation Before Going for the Training
 Degree of Meeting the Demands of Duties Assigned,
 New Things Learned
 Problems Faced in the Executing Tasks
 Gaps Between Theory and Practice
 Employment Prospects
 Relevance of Attachment.

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2.0 PLACEMENT IN THE ORGANIZATION

The training attachment was in Tanzania revenue authority in Mbeya region. The training was

carried under customs and accounts department. Various tasks and duties was performed in this

line of service as the part of attachment training.

2.1 TASKS AND DUTIES PERFORMED

The Accounting routine varies depending upon the scope of engagement, the nature of client’s

business and the number of staff engaged in the accounting. The tasks and duties performed also

depend on these aspects. In general, Accounting involves a combination of recording,

interpreting, preparing and reporting financial transactions. The routine tasks to be performed

emanate from the accountancy program, but in the process, these routine tasks engulf problem

solving and analytical skills to be applied by the person assigned.During the attachment at

T.R.A, I was assigned several duties including Recording revenues paid, Bank reconciliation,

vouching, casting, correction of errors and other tasks.

2.1.1 RECORDING PAID TAXES

The taxes paid should be recorded from the tac payment slips, the system on which data was

recorded is through computers through using the software call i.tax , this software is concerned

with tax records and each record is stored and updated on the entire system, the tax payment slips

which were recorded were for mbeya region only the process of recording taxes paid was

accompanied by knowing the type of tax to be charged on each payment

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2.1.2 BANK RECONCILIATION

is done to counter check the correctness of the bank transaction and records in the books. The

reconciliation is done for both collection account, expenditure account and each district account

(they maintain collection accounts only).

Bank reconciliation was a process that checked if there was difference between the bank balance

shown in T.R.A bank statement, as supplied by the bank, and the corresponding amount shown

in the organization's own accounting records in the tax payment slips, the objective of this

process was to find any difference and take measures to assure that there is no insignificant

financial relevance, T,R,A taxpayers pay their taxes through various banks like N.M.B, N.B.C,

C.R.D.B and many others therefore each bank gave our bank statement and we did bank

reconciliation through balancing paid taxes and the amount on the bank statement

2.1.3 ASSISTANCE IN FINALISING REPORTS

I also had a chance to work hand in hand with the seniors in finalizing different client’ reports

(Client Service Report). Such assistance includes tasks such as organizing working files, cross-

referencing, preparing management reports, organizing working sheets and reports, and report

check up.

2.1.4 CORRECTION OF ERRORS

Correction of errors is very important in the accounting process; it helps in determining the

existence of true and fair preparation of financial statements. Correction of errors is a detailed

work involved in the checking omission errors, compensating errors, errors of complete reversal

of entries, calculation errors and other errors in the recorded transactions. Correction of errors is

mostly relevant in expenses, incomes, cash and other areas,

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As an Accountant, I regularly performed correction of errors in assisting the seniors since it is

time consuming and so stressful especially in case of unorganized and concealing client.

2.1.5 CASTING

Casting is the process of checking whether the total shown or sub total of the certain category of

transaction are correct and accurately computed or not. The aim of conducting this test is to

make sure that, the balances in the financial statements are correct.

Other intention of this test is to make sure total figures are correct, before even actual accounting

starts. In case of any difference between the stated (i.e. client’s) and the accountant;s total figures

then the client will be required to offer explanations on that difference; but after a thorough

check on the causes of that discrepancy by the accountant him/herself. But incase of no

difference the symbols are placed on those totals to indicate that they are correct.

I performed casting to make sure that the figures I obtained harmonize with those in client’s

books. This renders the accounting process accurate in its bases.

2.2 WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work environment at T.R,.A can be described in accordance with the department I worked.

Nevertheless, the overall experience obtained from T.R.A is that, the job is done as teamwork

whereby the absence of one team member brings the gap in executing the assignments. In this

case, the absence of partner, manager or senior or one of the staff can result to difficult in

executing some of the tasks.

Not only that, but also the environment is very friendly. This made the stay at T.R.A enjoyable,

from the first day of the attachment. Whenever encountered with difficulties in exercising the

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assigned duties and tasks, all what I had to do was to ask, since questions were highly

encouraged by the seniors and associates, as they are well experienced. In addition, assistance

and clarification from those who are more experienced were readily given.

The staffs are well paid and are sponsored for professional studies like CPA. In addition, are

provided with modern equipment to execute the assigned duties. This makes duties execution

process simple and enjoyable.

2.3 Degree of Interest in the Tasks Performed

During the stay at T.R.A, much interest was developed on the work performed especially those

from Accounts Department. Despite being not much aware of most of the theories, the work was

enjoyable because of the following reasons:

The interest on the work performed also increased when practicing some of the theories in

accounting, despite the fact that they were not yet covered at I.A.A. This was a great moment

because I was able to link what I like with practices thus creating much insight and cementing

what already known theoretically.

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2.4 EXPECTATIONS BEFORE THE TRAINING

Before the beginning of the training, I had many expectations. The primary expectation was to

make the application of all the theories and principles from lectures and seminars, this was not

possible as only some were directly applicable and others require combination of new ideas and

creativity. Also, acquiring of new ideas and techniques was crucial as expected so in order to be

able to performed the duties and task assigned.

I also expected to find a great degree of confidentiality in accounting field and that is exactly

what found and demanded to follow as the basic rule of accounting. Confidentiality is one of the

key ethics and codes of conduct of accounting practices, so an accountant is required to observe

high confidentiality to the clients.

I expected the job to be demanding and require more than determination in performing it, and

that is exactly what found. The job was so tough and challenging in term of decisions to make

and solving the hidden puzzles of what the client has done in the whole financial year only in

limited time frame of about two weeks only. On the other hand, it was too demanding than

expected as the deadline for assignments was limited such that we had to work until night.

I was treated as the already employed staff, this is something that was not in my expectations as I

am still a student and I was only in training, I expected a gap between the staffs and me. Against

my expectations, I was listened and every suggestion or views I gave was taken in to

consideration. I accepted criticisms since they were in my expectations as the job was new to me.

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Finally, I can conclude by agreeing that most of my expectation were met and some were not that

made me to learn and adopt new ideas and skills in compensation.

2.5 DEGREE OF MEETING DEMANDS OF DUTIES ASSIGNED

Most of the duties that I did at T.R.A were not routine, most of them were either performed

quarterly basis..

From the fact that we had not yet covered the theoretical part of Accounting at the I.A.A; those

works that required much application of accounting theories required much instructions and

closer supervision from the seniors. Due to this lack of knowledge in the Accounting field, the

degree of meeting the demand of these tasks depended on the strength of assistance received

from the seniors or other members of the staff. Having the environment that is friendly, I was

able to accomplish these duties through asking questions whenever I encountered a problem on

my duties fulfillment.

2.6 NEW THINGS LEARNED FROM THE ORGANIZATION

Being at the firm has been of advantageous as I learned many things and acquired new ideas and

techniques in professional and personal life in general. I learned how people work together in

team despites of their differences and how this working relationship influences the performance

of the organization. Mostly importantly, I learned how to live and work with different people

with different attitudes and visions.

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Have also learned what it takes to become an Accountant that is my main professional goal.

From the fact that during my training period some courses were not yet covered I spent time

learning basis of more accounting principles and different facts and theories making up

accounting.

Moreover, in the organization I learned other useful values such as punctuality, confidentiality

and accountability. In addition, I learned how in the Organization people behave as relatives

from one big family. Also learned the feelings of how to behave as a real employee of the firm

and offer services to clients in real situation. The firm has long away introduced a fully

computerized information system that has tremendously simplified the whole process of

information gathering and handling. This was good lesson to me to know the importance of

information technology and to appreciate it accordingly. Also being exposed to full time

computer use has increased my knowledge in computers and how to use them.

In additional to all above, I have got to learn the most valuable thing in life. That is to believe

and think big always as what you think and finally believe in it can come true. Always when you

work for the community, you have not only to be creative but also to be courageous, and creative

and responsive to the customers or people to whom you are working or serving. As a matter of

facts, people or any working organization need to grow and for this case u need to think

international in order to grow.

With all these values, they helped me in a very peculiar way to mould the way I look at my

career and the way I indulge myself into it.

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2.7 PROBLEMS FACED IN EXECUTING TASKS

There were no major problems faced that could affect the effective execution of the assigned

duties. This is because T.R.A is a well-organized firm. However, since problems are inevitable,

some minor problems were faced, which I shared with my colleagues and other associates for

help.

Problems faced were mainly explained by the fact that during my training I was transforming

theories acquired in lectures into practice and lack of experience in working environment. My

practical training was the first time working experience. I considered these as challenges and not

problem per se.

Another challenge I faced is the lack of basic knowledge in computerized accounting experience,

I had to spend a lot of time to study and acquire the knowledge needed at the time,

Despite of above small challenges faced my field training was enjoyable and no major problem

were faced. This makes me conclude it was successful as most of the targeted goals were met.

2.8 GAPS BETWEEN THEORY AND PRACTICE

Most of the things received from lectures were applicable and fit to the tasks and duties I was

assigned though there were small gaps that arose. The main gap was lack of practice in

information system. More practical in information systems is required rather than theoretical

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aspects. Lack of computer skills is the biggest gap observed so more practical should be

emphasized in computer studies and application where special attention must be put in programs

like i.tax.

The knowledge received from lectures is general of what is in the real world. Only basic

knowledge and principle are provided. This makes the first day in real world tough and force the

student to start learning and incorporate the new incoming ideas and knowledge. And since no

two organization are similar, the lectures fail to fully prepare the student for specific organization

but only provide them with the general knowledge.

Another fact that causes the gap between teaching theory and practice is the kind of textbooks

used in teaching. The textbooks are imported from other countries especially western countries

hence written to meet environment of those countries and not Tanzania. Most of these countries

are developed countries while our country is the developing country thus the business

environment and working example provided with these textbooks are different from what

students face in the real world.

In other areas, there was no gap between theory and practice as I received the instruction on what

is to be done from my seniors. The seniors provided information, instructions, regulations and

other things to follow in working place that brought me up to date with the assignments and it

helped in reducing the gap between teaching theory and practice.

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2.9 EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

The firm has good working environment and encourage teamwork and potential to professional

growth, together with good management are some of ingredients that facilitates the growth. All

these make T.R.A the target for any reasonable person seeking a reputable and proper

employment.

During my stay at the firm, I did my best through hardworking, self-motivated and being creative

to make sure I stand a good chance to be employed in this reputable firm. My efforts were not a

waste as after finishing my period for practical training, due to the impressive attitude,

determination and hard working the firm had praised my hard work.

However, there was no direct promise of employment but I was encouraged to post my

application after completing my studies as the firm was impressed with my work and will be

happy to work with me in the future. The firm recruits graduates each year and give them a

training contract that I prefer for my career development, therefore I will be more than happy to

work with T.R.A.

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2.10 THE RELEVANCE OF ATTACHMENT

The field attachment was relevant to me in obtaining training and valuable experience in real life

situation. It helped me to integrate theory received from lectures and practice. It enhanced my

skills, knowledge work abilities, attitudes towards my areas of specialization, and develops

habits of critical thinking and exposed to managerial decisions.

The above mentioned were achieved through cooperation and assistance received from T.R.A

team of staffs.

The practical training also helped me to receive new ideas, problem solving techniques,

analytical skills and enjoying modern technology. It enabled me to acquire new knowledge in

workplace. It is not possible to acquire all of the required knowledge in class therefore the

practical training has filled the gaps that were not possible to be filled in class.

From the duties or tasks assigned to me at my placement as I have explained above, the practical

training is of much relevance. I gained a lot in terms of knowledge for example I was able to

experience practically the accounting practice as they are delivered theoretically.

My internal supervisor and the seniors of the assignment that I did gave me some tips relating to

accounting field especially on computer applications. I have also gained a high level of

confidence on accounting and assurance, adoption of new systems and on working with different

people with different perception, behaviors, beliefs and ideology.

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Chapter 3.
Conclusion and Recommendations

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3.0 CONCLUSION

T.R.A is structured to suit the modern revenue collections of Tanzania Government. The
organization recognizes the need of the revenue administration to support the government
activities. T.R.A has attained high level of success through maintenance of its mission and vision
and through realizing the importance of it’s clients . These together with good work environment
have enabled T.R.A to maintain its code of conduct that is acting professionally, collecting
revenues, upholding clients’ reputations, treating people and the environment with respect, acting
in a socially responsible manner, working together and thinking about the way they work,
considering the ethical dimensions of their actions. This is Connected Thinking, expressed in the
Code of Conduct. All these make me attracted with T.R.A and never hesitate to apply for the job
after finishing my studies.

As far as practical training is concerned, its main purpose of being established is to give an
opportunity for students to be able to integrate theory with practice. During the stay at T.R.A I
realized this, which not only added new insights on my study career but cementing those theories
already existing. Also, have learned how to behave professionally that is deliver professional
services in accordance with T.R.A policies and relevant technical and professional standards,
respect the confidentiality and privacy of clients, people and others with whom the firm does
business. Unless authorized, the staffs do not use confidential information for personal use,
T.R.A’s benefit or to benefit a third party. The firm discloses confidential information or
personal data only when necessary, and when appropriate approval to do so has been obtained,
and/or they are compelled to do so by legal, regulatory or professional requirements. This gave
me valuable experiences that was difficult to be acquired in class.

In addition to that, practical training opens up employment prospects for the student since the
same organization might call back the students after the graduation. This is because practical
training widens the knowledge and exposes the students in real practical world.

Furthermore, my practical training at T.R.A enhanced my knowledge in business and

technology. It improved my skills, knowledge, work abilities, confidence, and life experiences.

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At Deloitte, I was treated as a staff of the firm while I was only a trainee this made me feel
confident in performing the assigned duties thus made my field attachment enjoyable and fair
enough successful. Friendly working environment and team work are addition factors that made
my attachment enjoyable and hence meeting most of my expectations and intended goals.

Lastly, still more are to be done to be able to justify the meaning of the practical training. All of
what are to be done in order to improve this program are included on the recommendation part of
this report especially those concerning with handling gaps in the placement process.

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3.1 RECOMMENDATIONS

In the practical training I noticed some aspects which I would like to recommend about. One is

about improving gap between teaching theory and practice and the second is about handling gaps

in the placement process. These recommendations are all aiming about how to improve the

practical training program and on how to enhance the students to get the most out of it.

3.1.1 NARROWING THE GAPS IN THEORY AND PRACTICE

In order to narrow the gaps in theory and practice I suggest the following considerations to be

revised;

i) additional necessary efforts to ensure students are competent with information

technology. There should be more practical training sessions in computer programs. On

my opinion it will enhance the efficiency use and quick adaptation to technological

developments taking place in organizations.

ii) The practical training should be improved by ensuring that the students are placed in the

specific departments in the organization regarding the field of study of the student. Time

for practical training should be extended say to twelve (12) weeks; this will at least give

students enough time to work in the organization in order to get more experience.

iii) Practical sessions should be added rather than theoretical aspects when teaching, example

students are taught business terminologies and instruments like cheques, bankers

cheques, letters of credit and telegraphic transfers and how are they used. This will make

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them efficient when they are employed because most of these things are common in all

business organizations.

iv) The internal supervisors should be informed about how the training will be conducted

and kind of duties to assign and preparation of the work plan. This will facilitate proper

assessment and obtaining relevant and innovative comment about the students.

3.1.2 HANDLING GAPS IN THE PLACEMENT PROCESS

In order to handle the gaps in the placement process I suggest the following considerations to be

revised;

i) Before students start their training, organizations should give an outlay on what the

student is going to do. This shall help students to meet their expectations and also will

assist the students to write their reports with will reflect the work plans.

ii) The organizations should cooperate fully with the students by ensuring that the students

are assigned tasks to reflect their fields of study.

iii) The placement process should be done earlier to ensure that at the mid of the second

semester each student is properly placed.

iv) The Faculty should contact several organizations to known if and how many placements

are they going to offer. These will improve the placement process and reduce the burden

of going around looking for placements to the students.

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v) Also the students should go frequently for study tours in various organizations and

industries; this will enable them to see how practically the managers in several

departments are performing their managerial work. Also it will assist them to understand

the different management style used in different organizations.

vi) Also students should be given Assignments to go and obtain information on how the

organization operate, its management style and system of Accounting packages used this

will help students to acquire more knowledge on accounting packages.

vii) As for the placement process I think there is no problem so far in terms of planning and

operational logistic. However there are few things which have to be looked upon and

being taken into consideration these are:

 The Faculty of accounting have to inform the organization before on what the

student have covered in theory in order the company to know what duties they

can assign to the students.

 Also those organizations which require special qualification such as GPA

Criterion or aptitude test should try to invite their placement criterions much

earlier than they do. By doing so, students will be relieved from continuous

searching the placements and allow them to concentrate on other things.

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REFERENCES

I.A.A field attachment report format and guide -2014

The United Republic of Tanzania (2004), Income Tax Act 2004,

Wood, Frank, Alan Sangster, (2005), Business Accounting 1, FT Prentice Hall, Harlow

Public finance and Taxation 1 (2014), National Board f Accountants and Auditors -Tanzania

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APPENDICES

1.1 I-TAX COMPUTER SOFTWARE

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1.2 ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE

CHACHA Joseph .P BA/O182/T.2012 Institute of accountancy Arusha