The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has adopted the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, centred around five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are supported by the key principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion, and excellence. DUT Communications and Marketing Officer from the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Silindile Buthelezi,  recently engaged in a conversation with Nokwanda Biyase, a lecturer in the Department of Textile Science and Apparel Technology, specialising in the Apparel Technology programme in the Faculty of Applied Sciences in Durban.

Q: Kindly tell us about your role at DUT?

A: “I am a lecturer in the Department of Textile Science and Apparel Technology, specialising in the Apparel Technology programme in the Faculty of Applied Sciences. My role involves equipping students with both technical knowledge and critical thinking skills essential for driving innovation, sustainability and competitiveness in the clothing and textile sector.”

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

A: “I have been part of the DUT family since June 2022, which makes it just over three years.”

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

A: “Accountability, I strongly believe that growth comes through acknowledging both success and failure. Taking responsibility for our actions fosters integrity and continuous improvement. When we are honest about our contributions and take ownership, we create space for genuine learning and long-term success.”

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

A: “I believe the tagline beautifully captures the spirit of DUT. Creative reflects the innovative solutions we strive for in and outside the classroom. Distinctive speaks to our unique cultural identity as an institution. Impactful reminds us that our work must lead to positive, lasting change.”

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

A: “By integrating the values into my daily teaching and mentoring practices. I also plan to stay engaged through professional development, reflection, and collaborative projects that align with DUT’s vision of transforming society. Most importantly, I will continue encouraging students to live these values beyond campus as they are human values.”

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

A: “I’m deeply passionate about youth development.”

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

A: “A shared value framework provides a moral compass and strategic direction for the entire DUT community. It helps to create alignment between our institutional goals and our daily actions, encouraging a culture of accountability and compassion which we all need to service our community.”

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

A: “I find joy in anything involving handwork, like crafts.”

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

A: “Beyond transferring academic knowledge, I want to inspire students to think critically about how their skills can serve their communities. If even a few students walk away committed to being changemakers, then I know I’ve done something meaningful.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “The thought that each day is a new opportunity to positively influence someone’s future. That’s what keeps me going.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “I aim to contribute to curriculum transformation that aligns more closely with industry needs, while also playing a more active role in research that supports local apparel manufacturing growth. Long-term, I hope to lead initiatives that bridge the skills gap between academia and the apparel and textile industry.”

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

A: “To be able to help anyone in need, including myself because we rise by lifting others.”