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, Phiwayinkosi Sibiya, recently engaged in a conversation with Dr Wiza Munyeka, the Head of Department for Human Resource Management within the Faculty of Management Sciences to unpack the living values framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell us about your role at DUT?

A: “I currently serve as the Head of Department for Human Resource Management within the Faculty of Management Sciences. My role involves providing academic leadership, supporting staff development, strengthening our department’s research culture, ensuring curriculum relevance, and fostering a learning environment where both students and colleagues can thrive.”

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

A: “I joined DUT on 01 September 2024, and it has been a fulfilling journey of growth, collaboration, and continuous learning.”

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

A: “I resonate most strongly with integrity. As an academic leader, integrity forms the foundation of every decision, interaction, and commitment. It builds trust, strengthens relationships, and ensures that our work meaningfully contributes to the advancement of the university community.”

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

A: “The tagline speaks directly to who we are becoming as an institution. It captures the essence of innovation, excellence and the bold presence DUT continues to assert in the higher education landscape. It encourages all of us to think differently, embrace our uniqueness, and commit to work that leaves a measurable impact.”

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

A: “By integrating the values into my daily leadership practice, whether in decision-making, mentorship, research, or student engagement. I also plan to actively participate in institutional dialogues, training sessions, and initiatives that deepen the practical application of the framework across the university.”

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

A: “Many people do not know that I enjoy Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects and often use them as a way to reflect, decompress, and spark new ideas. It is a quiet passion that fuels my creativity.”

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

A: “The framework provides a shared moral compass for the entire institution. It will strengthen our culture, promote consistency in how we treat one another, and enhance accountability at all levels. Ultimately, it will help DUT become a more cohesive, ethical, and forward-looking institution.”

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

A: “I enjoy reading, spending quality time with my family, and taking quiet moments to reflect and plan. These activities rejuvenate me and help me stay grounded.”

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

A: “My focus is on building a strong research culture, improving staff morale, and fostering a supportive environment where innovation, collaboration, and student success are prioritised. I believe that when people feel valued and empowered, the entire institution benefits.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “Knowing that my work contributes to shaping future leaders motivates me every day. The growth of students and colleagues, academically, professionally, and personally, is a constant source of inspiration.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “I aim to strengthen our department’s research output, expand partnerships, and contribute to the faculty’s strategic vision. I also hope to mentor emerging scholars and support initiatives that enhance the quality of teaching, learning, and community engagement.”

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

A: “My wish would be to see a DUT where every staff member and student genuinely feels valued, supported, and empowered to excel. A university environment where humanity, innovation, and excellence coexist naturally. Let us put into practice the DUT Living Values, our actions should reflect transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability.