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 Nivar Somaru, an Academic Development Practitioner based in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) in Durban.
Q: Tell us about your role at DUT?
A: “I’m an Academic Development Practitioner based in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and CELT. My work spans several exciting areas, including curriculum design and development, grant coordination, and the development of short courses. I also play an active role in policy review and initiatives that support both staff and student development. I’m involved in key projects such as the DHET UCDG and DUT Big Rocks, ensuring alignment with the goals of ENVISION2030. I’m especially passionate about engaging in work that can positively impact the DUT community in meaningful and lasting ways.”
Q: How long have you been part of the DUT family?
A: “I’ve proudly been part of DUT since 2012.”
Q: Which of the ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles resonates most with you and why?
A: “Compassion stands out for me. In academic development, compassion helps create inclusive, supportive spaces for staff and students. It’s about understanding diverse needs, building trust, and responding with empathy. By living out this value, we foster environments that enable growth, belonging, and transformation-both personally and professionally.”
Q: What are your thoughts on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “It captures DUT’s essence powerfully. Creative reflects our culture of innovation and exploration. Distinctive speaks to our unique strengths in a competitive higher education space. And Impactful highlights our commitment to making a difference through our research, graduates, and engagement with society. It’s a powerful and aspirational message.”
Q: How do you stay connected to the Living Values Framework ?
A: “I actively participate in Living Values Framework sessions for both staff and students and take time to engage with key documents like the DUT Philosophy of Education green paper. That said, I believe it’s not just about staying informed-it’s about embedding the Living Values into our everyday life and interactions.”
Q: What’s something most people don’t know about you?
A: “I’m passionate about innovation and love being involved in projects that are a little disruptive, but in the best way possible. I enjoy exploring and contributing to new ideas that could strengthen DUT’s profile and impact.”
Q: How do you see the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefiting DUT?
A: “The Living Values Framework will help build a shared, values-driven culture rooted in integrity, respect, and inclusivity. It supports deeper engagement, encourages excellence, and promotes well-being across our community. I believe it will position DUT as a forward-thinking institution that’s truly Creative, Distinctive, and Impactful.”
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
A: “I love being a dad-it’s my most important and fulfilling role. Helping my kids discover and make sense of the world around them is something I truly enjoy. After all, all knowledge is new until it’s learned.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “By staying involved in initiatives that support growth and transformation at DUT. Whether through curriculum work or strategic projects, I aim to contribute in ways that genuinely uplift our staff and student communities.”
Q: What motivates you daily?
A: “There’s a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson that resonates deeply with me: ‘What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.’ It reminds me of the strength we each have to shape the future.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “Looking ahead, I hope to continue contributing to DUT’s Big Rocks and UCDG projects-particularly in ways that enhance development opportunities for both staff and students. Compassion remains my compass in all the work I do.”
Q: If you had one wish, what would it be?
A: “To contribute to creating an inclusive and empowering learning environment where every DUT student and staff member feels supported and inspired to reach their full potential. That’s the kind of university I want to be part of.”
