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 Communications Assistant, Thabile Shinga recently engaged in a conversation with Sthabiso Makhanya a Faculty of Management sciences Research administrator for the Postgraduate office.
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “Currently, I am a Research Administrator at the Faculty of Management Sciences Post Graduate Office at ML Sultan. I am also a founder of the FMS Annual Sports Day.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I joined DUT as a staff member in 2020.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “I embody transparency, respect, professionalism and excellence as these principles embrace human-centred approach, best believe these guiding principles drive customer excellence.”
Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “Personally, I view this tagline as a stimulus to the already existing DUT image as it maintains a strong reputation for powerful association with Creativity, Distinctiveness and Impact.”
Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “By ensuring I lean towards DUT Post Graduate Policies and have an eager to attend trainings that focuses on capacity development.”
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “I am a soccer player.”
Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “In my view, I believe that ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework can assist to navigate whether the anticipated results are being carried out accurately, which can then indicate the decisions that are required in order to drive change.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “I exercise, read, and watch soccer.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “By becoming more innovative and produce programs which enhance inclusive social cohesion, representation, community engagement, advocate for marginalized communities, including people with disabilities.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “Life does not stop when you fail your semester, but life stops when you stop trying.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “To complete my master’s degree.
Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “To become a professor.”
