Durban University of Technology (DUT) has launched the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework. The five values are identified as transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. The principles espoused are fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence. DUT’s Communications team, Simangele Zuma spoke to Sanele Doyisa, robotics facilitator in the MICTSETA Centre of Excellence in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at the Durban University of Technology (DUT).

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am a robotics facilitator in the MICTSETA Centre of Excellence in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics. I am responsible for empowering students to harness the power of robots and automation while also comprehending their ramifications for the world of Accounting and Informatics. Students benefit from my advice and mentoring. This involves guiding them with projects, assisting them in their knowledge of complex concepts, and cultivating their creativity and critical thinking abilities. In addition to my role as a robotics facilitator, I also serve as a teacher assistant in the Department of Information Technology.”

Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family? 

A: “I joined the DUT family in February 2016.”

Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why? 

A: “I generally relate with integrity since it is a fundamental value that represents honesty and a solid moral and ethical foundation. It entails acting in accordance with a set of beliefs and ideals, even when nobody is looking, and doing what is right, just and fair. I feel that honesty is a fundamental value that serves as the foundation for all other beliefs.”

Q: What are your views on the new DUT tagline: Creative. Distinctive. Impactful?

A: “The tagline: Creative. Distinctive. Impactful implies that DUT seeks to distinguish itself by encouraging creativity, delivering a distinctive educational experience, and making a good impact on its community and beyond. It’s a succinct and engaging method to convey the university’s principles and goals.”

Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework? 

A: “I intend to read, memorise, and meditate on these ideals, and to promote education and awareness, integration into policies and practices, training and development, accountability and measurement, promotion and communication, and continuous improvement.  Aligning with a values framework like ENVISION2030 relies on commitment and action. It is a constant process that necessitates dedication and hard work to have a beneficial influence.”

Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?

A: “One thing people may not know about me is that I am spiritually inclined and a multitalented individual; among my talents are dancing, singing, and playing rugby.”

Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?

A: “DUT can benefit from the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework by establishing a strong, ethical foundation, developing a positive culture, improving the institution’s reputation, and nurturing the development of well-rounded, ethical persons. It is a road plan for developing a university community that values not only academic accomplishments but also the values that lead to a just and caring society.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?

A: “I like to expand my knowledge in new technologies,  and to enhance my vocabulary.”

Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?  

A: “By treating others with respect, and equipping more students with new technologies, so that they can be more employable.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future-Jeremiah 29:11.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?   

A: “Continuous learning, self-discipline, until I obtain my NQF level 10 which is my PhD at DUT.”

Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?

A: “To see black people supporting each other.”