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 Media Officer, Simangele Zuma recently engaged in a conversation with Ms Nonhlanhla Mbatha, Finance Officer specialising in budgeting and financial reporting within the Student Housing and Residence Life unit at DUT, to delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “I am Nonhlanhla Mbatha, currently serving as a Finance Officer specialising in budgeting and financial reporting within the Student Housing and Residence Life unit. I also serve as a Residence Advisor and I am also a part-time coach of the DUT Cheerleading team (2024/2025) in the Sports Administration unit.”

Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I have proudly been part of the DUT family for ten years.”

Q: Amongst the ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “The values I most associate with are respect and honesty because it starts with me. Respect is crucial at DUT as it is about recognising and valuing our diversity, feelings, identities, and beliefs. This is especially important in my role, where I often interact with students while monitoring and guiding them.”

Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative. Distinctive. Impactful?
A: “DUT is reshaping its identity and goals, and I believe the tagline truly reflects that. The university is about making impactful change in our community and doing so in a distinctive and creative way.”

Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “By actively engaging with the values and principles of ENVISION2030 and aligning them with my daily work and personal conduct.”

Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “Many people don’t know that I always see the good in others. I am also the founder of several businesses and an NPO.”

Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “It will bring back hope, strengthen the sense of ubuntu within the DUT community, and inspire people to take action where they can.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “In my spare time, I love to dance.”

Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “I plan to lead by example. Beyond my professional role, I am a Residence Advisor and an entrepreneur who has created job opportunities by employing DUT undergraduates in my businesses, fostering creativity and empowerment.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “My son is my greatest motivation, along with my passion for progress and seeing positive change.

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “My future goal is to grow my businesses to better serve our community and to represent South Africa in Dance Sport at the international level next year.”

Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “My wish is for the Lord to bless my parents with long life so they can live to enjoy the fruits of my hard work.”