The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is guided by the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, which is anchored in five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect, and accountability. These values are further strengthened by the principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion, and excellence.

DUT Communications team member Thubelihle Dumakude recently engaged with Dr Scelo Mhlongo, Lecturer and Researcher within the Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, to gain insight into the Living Values Framework and its alignment with ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I serve as a Lecturer and Researcher within the Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment. My role involves teaching, supervising students, contributing to research, and supporting academic development within the institution.”

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

A: “I have been part of the DUT community for 14 years, including 8 years as a student and 5 years as a part time lecturer, during which I have grown both professionally and academically.”

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

A: “I strongly associate with integrity, as it forms the foundation of ethical academic practice. Upholding integrity ensures that my teaching, research, and professional interactions remain honest, transparent, and credible.”

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

A: “The tagline reflects a forward thinking and progressive institution. It captures DUT’s commitment to innovation, uniqueness in approach, and making meaningful contributions to society through education and research.”

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

A: “I intend to stay informed by actively engaging with institutional communications, participating in workshops and seminars, and integrating these values into my daily academic and professional practices.”

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

A: “Many people may not know that I have a strong interest in community development, mentoring youth, and creative writing, which I pursue outside of my academic responsibilities as a pastor.”

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

A: “The framework will strengthen institutional culture by promoting ethical conduct, accountability, and mutual respect. It will also enhance collaboration and ensure that DUT continues to produce graduates who are both competent and socially responsible.”

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

A: “In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family, exercising, and engaging in community activities, which help me maintain balance and personal well being.”

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

A: I aim to make a positive impact through quality teaching, mentoring students, contributing to impactful research, and upholding the core values of the institution in all my engagements.

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: My daily motivation comes from the opportunity to inspire and shape the next generation, as well as from the pursuit of continuous growth and excellence in my work.

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: My future goals include advancing my research profile, growing in academic management, contributing to curriculum development, and playing a meaningful role in the academic and professional development of students.

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

A: I would wish for continued growth and success for DUT, alongside the ability to positively influence and empower as many students as possible.