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 Nomthandazo Mjiyako, Logistics Coordinator at the Riverside Campus in Pietermaritzburg, to explore the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework and how it relates to her role at DUT.

Q: Kindly tell us about your role at DUT?

A: “I serve as the Logistics Coordinator in the Logistics Unit at the Riverside Campus in Pietermaritzburg. I am responsible for the receipt, control and internal distribution of goods, printing coordination, stock management, and ensuring that services are delivered efficiently and transparently to all departments.”

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

A: “I have been part of the DUT family for 26 years, and it has been a rewarding journey of growth and service.”

Q: Of the ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which ones do you most identify with and why?

A: “I mostly identify with transparency, honesty, integrity and accountability. In Logistics, every item, every invoice and every delivery must be accounted for. I believe in doing things correctly, even when no one is watching.”

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

A: “I find it very relevant. It challenges us in support services not to simply do routine work, but to be creative in solving problems, distinctive in our service, and impactful in how we support the core business of teaching and learning.”

Q: How do you plan to keep abreast of the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?

A: “By attending DUT workshops, engaging with DUT communication platforms, living the values daily in my interactions with colleagues and clients, and holding my team accountable to the same standards.”

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

A: “Most people do not know that I am very detail-oriented and passionate about process improvement. I always look for a better way to file, record and deliver more efficiently.”

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

A: “It creates a unified culture, improves teamwork, accountability and service excellence. It positions DUT as a truly great institution that lives its values.”

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A: “In my spare time, I enjoy reading, spending time with family, and learning new skills that can improve my work efficiency.”

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

A: “By minimising delays in our logistics support, maintaining accurate records for audit purposes, mentoring new colleagues, and providing excellent customer service with a smile.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “My daily motivation is knowing that my efficiency in Logistics enables an academic or a student to get what they need to succeed. That service keeps me going.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “To grow within the institution, contribute to a fully digitised procurement and distribution system, and become a champion of the ENVISION2030 Living Values.”

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

A: “My wish would be for DUT to be recognised as the most efficient and values-driven University of Technology in Africa, where every staff member feels valued and every student succeeds.”