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 team member, Vukani Langa, recently engaged in a conversation with Mr Brian Reynolds, Library Assistant: Audio Visual, Steve Biko Campus at DUT to delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “My role at DUT is Library Assistant in Information Technology. We offer Information Technology support to our students and staff. We also extend this service online, installation of software, Endnote, and SPSS.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I have been a member of the DUT family for 25 years.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “The ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles are designed to guide global efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with integrity, inclusivity, and sustainability. While I do not have personal experiences or preferences, I can tell you which value I most align with in terms of how I operate and support users. One that resonates strongly with how I function is “integrity.”
Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative. Distinctive. Impactful.
A: “Creative. Distinctive. Impactful is a powerful expression of the university’s evolving identity and aspirations under its ENVISION2030 strategy. It leaves no one behind, empowers marginalised voices and ensures accessibility and equity in decision-making and services.’’
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “I have run 14 Comrades Marathons and successfully completed 10.’’
Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “Strengthening institutional identity, enhancing student experience, driving social and economic impact. Fostering innovation and creativity, building trust and accountability. The ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework is a transformative initiative for DUT, and its benefits span across institutional culture, student development, and societal impact.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “By supporting students, staff, and the broader DUT community in meaningful ways.’’
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “Cycling, running, and walking.’’
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “I do not have personal feelings or motivations, but I am designed to be purpose-driven’.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “Establish real-time access to information, contextual understanding, user collaboration and continuous learning.’’
Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “Empowering marginalised voices.”
