The Durban University of Technology (DUT) approved 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, Patience Makhaye, spoke to Philile Mbamali, an International Education Programmes Assistant.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT? 

A: “I currently hold the title of an International Education Programmes Assistant for the International Education and Partnerships Office at ML Sultan campus. Through administration I assist with IEP functions, meetings, and events. I support the process of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and the upkeep of its database, take enquiries of prospective/registered international students and as well general administration of the IEP Office which include liaising with other DUT departments.”

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

A: “Five years, I spent four years and six months in the Faculty of Health Sciences, Homoeopathy department as an admin assistant, I am only six months old in this new department.”

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

A: Under the values I will pick respect, accountability, and transparency. I always ensure to treat students, employees, and everyone else around me in the same manner that I treat myself. I am always mindful of my actions; I share information while ensuring that I keep my office user-friendly to other colleagues even in my absence which I believe represents transparency. I am very committed to my work; I deliver effectively and on a high standard in 2021 the Faculty of Health Sciences awarded me a certificate of appreciation in Excellent Office management and behaviour.”

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

A: “It is motivating, it reminds us of why are we are a University of Technology. We should keep being creative and impactful, and to continuously develop technology of the current century.”

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

A: “Staying aligned to the values and principles, mostly importantly wearing them, and acting them all.”

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

A: “I am a shy, sometimes antisocial person. I try to hide it since I engage a lot with students but I always aim to leave a good image for my office.”

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

A: “The outcome will be technologically creative, educated, and successful individuals for the future.”

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

A:” I watch TV reality shows, go to the gym, and enjoy spending time with friends and family.”

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

A: “By influencing the youth to embark on entrepreneurship through DUT innobiz.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A: “Take your time and do it the best way you can.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “I am currently looking forward to stable employment, and more qualifications. I am currently looking forward to qualifying as a Master of Business Administration (MBA).”

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

A: “Health and again a healthy long life so that I can enjoy the fruits of my hands. I always have in my mind that no matter how rich you become when you are physically unhealthy there is nothing to enjoy at all.”