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 Vukani Langa recently engaged with Thobeka Khumalo, Faculty Assistant in the Faculty of Arts and Design, to gain insight into the Living Values Framework and its alignment with ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “I am Thobeka Khumalo, who works at the Faculty of Arts & Design as a Faculty Assistant. My role is to support the smooth running of activities within the faculty, which includes assisting students, administrative and academic tasks, and handling all faculty-related queries.”

Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “I have been with DUT for over a year now and I look forward to many more years.”

Q: Amongst the ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “Transparency, which aligns with being clear and truthful, as well as honesty and integrity.”

Q: What are your views on the new DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “It is powerful and modern because it reflects what universities should aim to produce in today’s world: graduates who can think differently, stand out, and make a real difference in society.”

Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “I plan to familiarise myself with DUT policies, attend workshops and faculty engagements, and regularly follow university communications and updates. I also aim to apply the values of integrity, transparency, respect, accountability, and excellence in my daily academic and professional conduct.”

Q: What is one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “One thing most people do not know about me is that I am deeply focused on personal growth and academics. Although I may seem funny and playful, I am very determined, hardworking, and passionate about building a successful future.”

Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “It will benefit Durban University of Technology by creating a strong culture of accountability, integrity, innovation, and mutual respect among students and staff.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “I am a family person who always wants to be near my loved ones, so I spend most of my spare time with them.”

Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “I plan to make a positive impact at DUT by being respectful, responsible, and actively contributing to the university community.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “Striving for success is what pushes me to work hard every day.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “My future goals at DUT are to excel academically, gain valuable knowledge and practical skills in my field of study, and grow both personally and professionally.”

Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “Seeing myself walking across the graduation podium in a red gown.”