Durban University of Technology (DUT) has officially launched the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, which is anchored in five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are further supported by the principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence.
DUT Communications team member Simangele Zuma recently engaged in a conversation with Dr Hlengiwe Mabizela, a Lecturer in the Department of Public Management, Law and Economics in Pietermaritzburg and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Coordinator within the department, to explore the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework.
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “I am a Lecturer in the Department of Public Management, Law and Economics in Pietermaritzburg, and I am also responsible for coordinating Work Integrated Learning within the Department.”
Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?
A: “It has been 10 years. I joined DUT in 2016 as a Graduate Assistant, became a WIL Coordinator in 2019, and progressed into lecturing, which I continue to do to date.”
Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?
A: “I mostly associate with accountability because I believe in taking responsibility for the work entrusted to me, supporting others, and contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of the University and its students.”
Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?
A: “I think the tagline captures what DUT aspires to be. It encourages us to think differently, distinguish ourselves through excellence, and ensure that our work creates a meaningful impact on students, communities and society.”
Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?
A: “I plan to continuously engage with the framework, participate in institutional initiatives, and ensure that its values are reflected in my teaching, research, student support and daily interactions.”
Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?
A: “I have an almost excessive level of financial discipline. I study my bank statements almost every month. I like knowing exactly where my money goes and making sure I remain financially responsible.”
Q: In your opinion, how does the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?
A: “It provides a direction and values that can strengthen our institutional culture, improve accountability and collaboration, and help us remain focused on creating meaningful impact in the lives of students as well as society.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “I simply use my spare time to sleep, relax and recharge.”
Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?
A: “By supporting students, contributing to quality teaching and research, strengthening WIL opportunities, and participating in initiatives that advance the Department and University’s strategic objectives.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “My daily motivation is knowing that the work I do can positively influence students’ lives and contribute to their academic and professional development.”
Q: What are your future goals at DUT?
A: “My goal is to continue growing as an academic, strengthen my research and teaching contributions, and mentor students and emerging academics.”
Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?
A: “My wish would be to see every student who enters DUT given the opportunity, support and resources they need to realise their full potential and succeed.”
