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 and PR team member, Snethemba Shozi, recently engaged in a conversation with Asanda Chonco, President of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Student Chapter at DUT.
Q: Kindly tell us about your role at DUT?
A: “I serve in multiple leadership and academic roles at DUT. I am currently a PGDA student in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics and a Class Representative, ensuring effective communication and academic support within my cohort. I also serve as the President of the ACFE Student Chapter, where I promote ethical conduct, transparency and accountability among students.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I joined the DUT family in 2021, and I have been an active, engaged member for the past four years.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “The value I resonate with most is Integrity. As an aspiring Chartered Accountant and current ACFE Student Chapter President, integrity forms the foundation of both my academic and professional journey. It guides how I lead, how I serve students, and how I carry myself in every space, with honesty, consistency, and accountability.”
Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “ I believe the tagline captures the essence of DUT’s identity and future direction. Creative represents our innovative spirit; Distinctive reflects our unique culture and excellence; and Impactful speaks to DUT’s commitment to improving lives and livelihoods. It is a powerful statement that inspires both students and staff to lead with purpose.”
Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “ I plan to remain aligned by actively engaging in programmes, leadership platforms, and student structures that promote these values. Through my role in the ACFE Student Chapter and in student leadership, I continuously integrate the principles of transparency, accountability, and professionalism into the work I do.”
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “ Many people don’t know that I am deeply passionate about mentorship. Guiding and empowering others is something I consider a personal calling rather than an obligation.”
Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “The framework provides a unified set of values that strengthens our institutional culture. It promotes ethical leadership, enhances accountability, and fosters an environment where both staff and students can thrive. Ultimately, it ensures that DUT remains a university that is not only academically strong but also values-driven and socially impactful.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “In my spare time, I enjoy expanding my knowledge through reading and exploring developments in the accounting and forensic fields. I have also developed a strong interest in analysing data using machine learning techniques and learning the Python programming language. Investing time in these emerging technologies helps me stay future-ready and aligns with DUT’s focus on innovation under ENVISION2030.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “I plan to make a positive impact by continuing to lead with integrity, supporting student development, and contributing to initiatives that align with ENVISION2030. Through mentorship, academic excellence, and ethical leadership, I hope to inspire a culture of responsibility and professionalism among students.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “My motivation comes from knowing that my journey can inspire others, and that every small step I take contributes to my long-term goals. I wake up driven by purpose, growth, and the desire to make a meaningful difference.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “My future goals include further strengthening the ACFE Student Chapter, contributing to impactful student initiatives, and ultimately completing my accounting qualifications while representing DUT with excellence.”
Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “My wish would be to see the world at peace again. I am deeply concerned about the challenges and conflicts we witness globally, and I believe that peace creates a foundation for progress, compassion, and shared humanity. This wish aligns closely with the spirit of ENVISION2030, which encourages us to embody values such as respect, accountability, compassion, and integrity ,principles that are essential for building peaceful and sustainable communities.”
