Durban University of Technology (DUT) officially launched the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, comprising five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are underpinned by the principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence. DUT Nokonwabisa Lillian Ngele, recently engaged in a conversation with Russel Zikhali at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), to delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “I am the UPSET project administrator at CELT and a residence advisor at the Manhattan Sands residence.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I joined DUT in 2019 as a first-year student in the faculty of Accounting and Informatics. Continuing my academic journey, I am currently pursuing my master’s in Administration and Information Management in the same faculty.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “The value I mostly associate with is commitment because I believe that dedication and perseverance are essential for success, both individually and professionally. Being committed to my work is what maintains my high academic performance and ensures that I fulfil my responsibilities diligently.”
Q: What are your views on the new DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “I think the new DUT tagline really captures what the university is all about: innovation, excellence, and societal transformation. Not only does DUT encourage fresh ideas to problem solving, but it also stands out through hands-on research and industry partnerships, and ensures impact by producing graduates and research that drive community and economic growth.”
Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “I plan to stay aligned with the ENVISION2030 Living Values framework by actively applying its principles such as accountability, professionalism, and excellence my daily work. I will take advantage of DUT initiatives like the Empower EDpreneurs programme, leadership workshops and community engagement projects to keep learning and growing. Additionally, I will stay informed about DUT’s strategic direction to ensure my actions align with its long-term vision.”
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “Nothing in particular, I’m quite open and I believe in sharing my thoughts and experiences with those around me.”
Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “The ENVISION2030 Living Values framework will benefit DUT by building a strong ethical foundation and enhancing a culture of excellence for both students and staff. By embracing values such as integrity, professionalism, and respect, the framework will create a positive working and learning environment that encourages collaboration and trust, making DUT a place where anyone can thrive.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “In my spare time, I enjoy reading and listening to podcasts, whether they are educational or non-educational. I also like spending time with my friends and family.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “Firstly, I aim to contribute to a culture of excellence by ensuring my research thesis is of the highest quality. Secondly, as a residence advisor, I also plan to actively engage with students, offering mentorship and support to help them achieve their academic goals. Then as a project administrator, I plan to actively collaborate with my colleagues and stakeholders with transparency and honesty. Basically, I plan to make a positive impact at DUT by living out the core values of the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework in everything I do.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “My daily motivation is all about personal growth, I see challenges as an opportunity to learn and grow. This mindset has been helping me stay focused and keep improving. It also encourages those around me to do the same.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “I want to advance my research and become an expert in my field. I also aim to become a lecturer so that I can further enhance the learning experience for students by incorporating innovative teaching methods and fostering a supportive academic environment.”Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “If I had one wish, it would be to make educational opportunities accessible to everyone, no matter where they come from. I truly believe education has the power to change lives, and if more people had the right support and resources, they could reach their full potential and create a better future for themselves.”
