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 engaged in a conversation with Ms Kirshni Rhyman, Skills Development Officer within Human Capital Services at DUT, to explore the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “My role as the Skills Development Officer within Human Capital Services is to drive workforce capability, align training with strategic business goals, and ensure regulatory compliance. The key functions of this role include strategic planning, stakeholder liaison, evaluation, and continuous improvement by reviewing feedback mechanisms to adjust active learning programmes and secure high standards of knowledge transfer. This also includes planning and alignment of Needs Analysis, designing of learning frameworks that directly support long-term company growth, and future business objectives. My role also serves at the Skills Development Forum which acts as liaison between the organization and Sector Education and Training Authorities. Other activities include reporting for the submission of statutory documents for the ETDP SETA and ultimately measure the return on investment (ROI) and the impact of implemented training initiatives.”

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

A: “I have been a member of the awesome DUT family within HCS for 17 years.”

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

A: “Honesty and transparency matter most to me because we build trust, create deep connections, and foster inner peace.

• Honesty matters because truth forms the basis of safety and creating strong bonds with others. It fosters respecting clear words which shows a high regard for the people in your life and provides Safety in knowing where you stand which removes doubt and fear.
• Transparency matters because it provides clarity which open actions to stop false ideas and hidden worries. It supports growth in which real truth helps groups and teams fix problems fast and provides peace where living without secrets keeps your mind calm and free.”

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

A: “It is a strong, positive reflection of ENVISION2030, representing innovation, uniqueness, and real-world societal contributions.

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

By integrating core principles into daily tasks, attending institutional workshops, and following university updates. Also actively engage with the framework through practical application and collaboration through daily integration and alignment and engagement and learning.

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

A: “I’m kind, caring and supportive and I love people which means I love to engage.”

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

A: “By fostering a positive institutional culture, strengthening accountability, and enhancing the overall student and staff experience. It unites the university community under shared principles to drive meaningful social impact.

• Cultural and Institutional Growth by uniting the community, driving behavioural change, and strengthening identity.
• Performance and social Impact by improving experiences, promoting reflection and broadening societal value.”

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

A: “Be the best mom I can be and help my son love and live life to the fullest.”

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

A: “By aligning my work with ENVISION2030, bridging the industry skills gap, and fostering student and staff growth. Aligning with Institutional Values and Live ENVISION2030 values, promote an entrepreneurial mindset.

• Bridging Academia and Industry by updating training content build external partnerships.
• Empowering the DUT Community by offering mentorship and support continuous learning.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A: “God will never leave nor forsake you. Galatians 6:9: Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “Focus on completing my Master’s programme in HRM and designing company-wide training strategies which directly improve worker performance and optimise training grants. Also put my best efforts in and remain consistent to ensure that I have the best outcome.”

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

A: “Good health.”