The Durban University of Technology’s Human Resources Department hosted a full day Staff Orientation Programme on Friday, 28 September 2018 at DUT’s Hotel School, Conference Centre on the Ritson Campus in Durban.
The aim of this highly informative session was to introduce all new staff members to DUT’s structures, programmes and policies.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations, Dr Isaac Machi gave a warm welcome to new staff members and outlined projects and units that fall within his portfolio. “Even though our sector is not the core business of the University, but we play a critical role of supporting the core mandate of the University, which is teaching and learning,” said Dr Machi.
Dr Machi indicated that some sections within the People and Operations portfolio are currently undergoing some changes with the view of improving efficiency.
Some of the departments that fall under the People and Operations portfolio include Planning, Risk Management, Human Resources and University Estate (inclusive of Protection Services, Transport, Maintenance etc.).
Director: Human Resources Development, OD and Performance, Manoshni Perumal spoke about the importance of embracing diversity and cultural sensitivity. “We are trying to inculcate the culture of inclusivity,” said Perumal.
The newly appointed Senior Director: Human Resources, Dr Vuyo Mthethwa who commenced her duties at DUT from 01 September 2018, used this opportunity to welcome other new employees and also to briefly share her vision for her new position.
“Fundamentally I think it is important that everyone should be doing a job that he/she is passionate about because without passion you can’t enjoy what you are doing. So that is what I want to bring in the workplace because we are spending a bulk of our time here, so it is important to infuse excitement,” she said.
The workshop received comprehensive presentations from all six faculties (Applied Sciences, Arts & Design, Engineering and the Built Environment, Health Sciences, Management Sciences and Accounting and Informatics), Research, Innovation and Engagement, Office of the Registrar, Finance, Management Information Systems, Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching, Corporate Affairs, Library Services, Centre for Quality Promotion Assurance, Health and Safety as well as labour unions representatives.
Pictured: Some of the delegates who attended the Staff Orientation Programme.
Nduduzo Ndlovu
