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 Zama Hlongwane, a lecturer in the Department of Maritime Studies in the Faculty of Applied Sciences in Durban.
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “I am a maritime lecturer at DUT and a marketing representative for our department.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I am relatively new, having joined DUT in February last year and started full-time in July 2024.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “I most associate with excellence because in the maritime field, continuous improvement and adapting to global changes are crucial. This principle drives me to deliver quality education and stay updated with industry trends especially because in maritime studies which had started 20 years ago from humble beginnings. I could only survive in the shore-based sector through hard work and perseverance and my belief in innovation and excellence which involves continuous improvement.”
Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative. Distinctive. Impactful?
A: “The tagline perfectly captures DUT’s spirit. Being creative and distinctive aligns with how we prepare students to stand out in the maritime industry. It also speaks to us as the lecturers to seek continuous improvement and also not to resort to being comfortable but to lean on each other for growth, creativity, distinctive in order to be impactful, while impactful reflects our commitment to making a real difference in students’ lives and the sector.”
Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “Personally, ENVISION2030 means a great deal to me because it aligns closely with my own career values and global perspectives. As a graduate of the World Maritime University in Sweden, which operates under the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a United Nations agency, I deeply appreciate how interconnected the shipping industry is worldwide. Similarly, DUT’s ENVISION2030 framework reflects this interconnectedness and commitment to sustainable development goals. Holding these values dearly, I see ENVISION2030 not only as a guide for my work but as a framework that supports the broader sustainable goals I have embraced throughout my maritime career.”
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “I hold a deep conviction that true transformation begins within oneself, precisely in the present moment and place. I am passionate about everything I undertake and committed to making a meaningful difference, no matter how small, because I believe that even the smallest actions can ripple outward to create profound change.”
Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “It will foster a unified culture of integrity, innovation, and social responsibility, which are essential for DUT to remain a leader in higher education and produce graduates who can impact the maritime industry positively.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “I cherish being a mother to my bubbly daughter Samkelisiwe and enjoying quality moments with my family, especially my sister Fanelesibonge. I also actively serve as chair of the trade committee for women in the shipping and trading association, engage in community outreach and marketing, provide consultancy to intergovernmental organizations, an opportunity I’m truly grateful for, and to pursue my PhD. These commitments keep me energised and fulfilled.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “Earning my qualification in International Shipping from DUT opened many doors for me and marked a highlight in my career. The lecturers who are now my colleagues, didn’t just transfer knowledge, they provided opportunities that shaped my path. Inspired by this, I am passionate about making a positive impact on my students’ careers, as contributing to their success brings me great satisfaction. I am committed to leaving a meaningful mark on their futures while supporting my department in achieving its goals. I am because they are.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “My daily motivation is the opportunity to shape future maritime professionals who will contribute meaningfully to the global maritime sector.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “For now, I am grateful to DUT for the opportunity to pursue my PhD studies. My primary focus is to complete this qualification and continue contributing to the success of our maritime department.”
Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “It is to see DUT become a globally recognised leader in maritime education and research, producing graduates who drive sustainable growth in the industry.”
