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 Sihle Mngomezulu, Residence Advisor, Public Relations Practitioner and a Master candidate.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am Sihle Mngomezulu, and I currently serve as a residence advisor at the DUT student residence. I am also working at Corporate Affairs: Marketing, PR and Events and I am a master candidate under the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics.”

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

A: “It been five years now being a DUT family member.”

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

A: “The living value that I associate with is respect because it starts with me. Respect is crucial at DUT because it is about recognising and valuing our diversity, feeling, identity and beliefs.”

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

A: “The DUT tagline is more than just a phrase; it is a plan of action that represents the Durban University of Technology (DUT) changing its identity and its goals.”

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

A: “To keep abreast with DUT’s ENVISION2030 is to actively engage with it values and principles.”

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

A: “What people do not know about me is that I want own my own Marketing, PR and Events Management Company.”

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

A: “It will guide DUT’s actions and shaping its culture, operations and impacts.”

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

A: “In my spare time I go out for fresh air and to clear my mind.”

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

A: “I plan to lead with example and be an impactful advisor to students that are at my residence.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A: “My daily motivation is that hard works pays off and you reap what you sow.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?  

A: “My future goal is to obtain my PhD and work for DUT.”

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

A: “My wish is to be to be successful in my career.”