The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has officially launched the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, which is anchored in five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are further supported by the principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence.

DUT Communications team member Waheeda Peters recently spoke with Mr Basanda Sithole, a Marketing Intern at the Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI) Office, to learn more about his role at DUT, his thoughts on the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework and how he plans to make a positive impact at the University.

Q: Please tell us about your role at DUT.

A: “I am both a student and an intern in the Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI) Office at DUT, where I support initiatives that promote research, innovation and technology commercialisation.”

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

A: “I have proudly been part of the DUT family for three and a half years.”

Q: Which of the ENVISION2030 Living Values or Principles do you identify with the most, and why?

A: “I identify most strongly with honesty, accountability, respect and transparency. These values have always been part of who I am and guide how I conduct myself as a student, an employee, a football player and in my everyday interactions with others.”

Q: What are your thoughts on DUT’s new tagline, Creative. Distinctive. Impactful?

A: “I believe the tagline truly reflects the direction DUT is taking. The University actively encourages creativity, innovation and meaningful social impact. Through the Technology Transfer and Innovation Office, I have seen firsthand how researchers and innovators are supported with funding and resources to transform ideas into solutions that benefit society.”

Q: How do you plan to embrace the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?

A: “I plan to uphold the Living Values Framework by leading through example. While I know there is always room for personal growth, I am committed to continuously developing myself and embodying these values in both my personal and professional life.”

Q: What is something that most people do not know about you?

A: “Most people do not know that I enjoy studying human behaviour and recognising patterns in the way people think and interact.”

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

A: “I believe the Living Values Framework will strengthen DUT’s culture by encouraging both staff and students to embrace shared values. As more people live by these principles, the University will continue to grow as a safe, welcoming, innovative and collaborative environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A: “In my spare time, I enjoy learning about health, fitness, personal development and finding ways to maintain a balanced perspective on life.”

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

A: “I hope to make a lasting impact by establishing a non profit organisation that partners with DUT to create meaningful opportunities and initiatives that positively benefit students and surrounding communities.”

Q: What motivates you each day?

A: “My daily motivation is to become a better version of myself than I was yesterday. I believe that by continually growing as a person, I will be better equipped to support, uplift and provide for the people who matter most to me.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “I hope to contribute to DUT’s vision of becoming an even more innovative, creative and socially impactful institution while helping to create an environment where students can excel academically, personally and professionally.”

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

A: “My one wish would be to build my mother her dream home and give her the opportunity to retire comfortably as a way of thanking her for everything she has sacrificed for our family.”