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 Communications team member, Thubelihle Dumakude recently engaged in a conversation with Nolwando Mgilane , Lecturer in the Department of Financial Accounting, to delve into the living values framework and ENVISION2030.
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT? :
A: “I am a lecturer and ECP Coordinator in the Department of Financial Accounting.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I have been with DUT since 2016 as a student and from 2023 I was appointed as a lecturer.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why? :
A: “I associate with accountability and integrity because they represent the foundation of both personal and professional conduct. Accountability means taking responsibility for one’s actions and decisions, while integrity ensures that those actions are guided by honesty, fairness, and ethical reasoning. Upholding accountability and integrity not only strengthens my character but also aligns with my role as an academic and professional, where transparency and ethical practice are non-negotiable.”
Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “I believe the DUT tagline Creative, Distinctive, Impactful reflects the university’s vision of producing adaptive graduates that transform society. Creativity equips students to think innovatively and find solutions to emerging challenges. Distinctiveness highlights DUT’s unique identity and commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. Impactful emphasises the real-world change the university strives for which are nurturing graduates who are adaptable, ethical, and ready to make a difference. Together, these values ensure that DUT is not only shaping professionals but also empowering future leaders who can transform society in meaningful ways.”
Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “I plan to keep abreast with ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework by actively engaging with the values in both my personal and professional life. I will also make an effort to participate in DUT activities, workshops, and initiatives that promote these values, ensuring I stay updated and aligned with the university’s vision. Furthermore, I intend to integrate these principles into my teaching, research, and interactions with colleagues and students so that they become a lived practice rather than just a framework on paper.”
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “Most people don’t know that I am an educational activist. I am deeply passionate about advocating for access to quality education and creating opportunities for learners to thrive.”
Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework will benefit DUT by fostering a values-driven culture that promotes ethical leadership, accountability, and integrity among students and staff. It will enhance social impact by equipping graduates to act as responsible, adaptive, and transformative members of society, while strengthening stakeholder’s trust and the university’s reputation. By embedding these principles, DUT can cultivate collaboration, innovation, and excellence, positioning itself as a distinctive and forward-thinking institution.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “I enjoy reading because it allows me to create my own pictures and visions in my mind. Reading inspires me to learn, to explore new ideas, and to apply them in my own life, making it both an enjoyable and an enriching experience.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “I am already making a positive impact at DUT by bridging the gap between theory and practice in accounting. I actively engage industry stakeholders to partner with our students, providing them with real-world insights, mentorship, and practical opportunities. This ongoing effort helps students to apply their knowledge effectively, prepares them for the profession, and strengthens DUT’s connections with the accounting industry.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “My daily motivation comes from the belief that if I don’t take initiative and act for myself, no one else will do it for me. This mindset drives me to be proactive, to take responsibility for my growth, and to make a meaningful impact every day. It reminds me to stay focused, work hard, and turn opportunities into achievements rather than waiting for them to come to me.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “My future goals at DUT are to grow both academically and professionally. I aim to deepen my knowledge and expertise in accounting while developing practical skills that allow me to contribute meaningfully to the university and the wider industry. I also hope to engage in initiatives that foster collaboration between students, faculty, industry stakeholders, and international partners, creating impactful learning experiences and strengthening DUT’s reputation for excellence globally.”
Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “It would be to create a world where education is accessible and empowering for everyone. I believe knowledge has the power to transform lives, and I would love to see every person have the opportunity to learn, to grow, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.”
