Durban University of Technology (DUT) officially launched the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, comprising five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are underpinned by the principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence. DUT Marketing, Public Relations and Events Assistant Snethemba Shozi, recently engaged in a conversation with Sphesihle Ndlovu, Data Capturer and Analyst at the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT).
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “I currently serve as a Data Capturer and Analyst at the Centre for Excellence in Learning & Teaching (CELT), where I contribute to institutional research and academic support initiatives. In addition, I lead the Residence Educational Programmes (REP), a strategic intervention designed to support students in high-priority modules that often present academic challenges. I also hold the position of Residence Advisor at one of DUT’s leased residences, where I provide mentorship and foster a conducive living and learning environment.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I joined the DUT community in 2020 as an undergraduate student in Drama and Production Studies, completing my Diploma Cum Laude, in record time. I subsequently pursued an Advanced Diploma in Drama and Production Studies, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, driven by my passion for brand development and empowering artists to lead within their domains. I am currently enrolled in the Master of Business Administration programme, continuing my academic journey with a focus on leadership and strategic impact.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “I resonate with four, namely: accountability, respect, compassion, and professionalism. Respect, in particular, has opened many doors for me and remains a foundational principle in all my interactions. Professionalism, ensures that I maintain integrity and discipline across both formal and informal settings. Compassion, allows me to connect meaningfully with others and offer support with empathy. Accountability, reflects my commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and personal responsibility.”
Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “I believe the tagline aptly captures DUT’s institutional ethos. It offers prospective students a clear and compelling vision of what the university stands for and what it strives to cultivate which is creativity, uniqueness, and meaningful impact. It reflects DUT’s commitment to shaping graduates who are not only academically equipped but also socially conscious and future ready.
Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “My approach is to internalise and embody the Living Values across all spheres of my life, public, professional, and personal, until they become second nature. By aligning my actions and decisions with these principles, I aim to contribute meaningfully to DUT’s transformative vision.”
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “I am deeply committed to helping others, regardless of race, background, gender, or religion. I consistently go the extra mile to assist anyone in need, always with a smile and a spirit of generosity.”
Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “The framework will foster a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for both students and staff. It will enable effective teaching, mentorship, and skills development, while cultivating graduates who embody DUT’s values in the wider world. Moreover, it will inspire staff to advance the university’s mission with integrity and purpose in every space they occupy.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “I enjoy reading, listening to music, and staying informed about current affairs, particularly developments within South Africa and my immediate surroundings. Staying informed helps me remain engaged and responsive to the world around me.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “My goal is to expand the Residence Educational Programme beyond its pilot phase, transforming residence spaces into vibrant hubs of academic engagement and personal growth. I envision the programme driving measurable academic success and becoming a model for other institutions, locally and internationally, seeking to implement similar initiatives. Ultimately, I aim to position DUT as a leader in residence-based academic support.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “As the eldest of four siblings, I am driven by the responsibility of being a positive role model. I strive to embody values and behaviours that inspire them to pursue excellence and believe in their potential, using me as a close reference within their proximity.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “I aspire to inspire before I expire. My goal is to positively influence as many students and staff members as possible during my tenure, creating opportunities and pathways that were previously unavailable. I am committed to leaving a legacy of empowerment and transformation.”
Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “I would wish for a second chance at life for my late brother, Siphiwe Thulani Ngiba, who was brutally murdered in 2024. He was a dedicated Civil Engineering & Geomatics student at DUT, and I know he had a bright future beyond measurable doubt.”
