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 Communications team member Luyanda Mlaba recently engaged with Wandile Ndlovu a Procurement Administrative Assistant at DUT.

Q: Kindly tell us about your role at DUT.

A: “I serve as a Procurement Administrative Assistant at DUT, where I handle procurement-related enquiries and help ensure that the Supply Chain Management Department provides efficient, effective and timely support to the university’s various departments. My role involves facilitating communication between end-users and Supply Chain Management, ensuring that enquiries are directed appropriately and that departments receive the assistance they need to operate smoothly. I also serve as a Residence Advisor, supporting students and contributing to a positive living and learning environment. Balancing these responsibilities has taught me the importance of service, accountability, effective communication and understanding people’s diverse needs.”

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

A: “My journey with DUT began in 2020 when I joined the university as a student. In 2024, I had the opportunity to join the institution as an intern, and through hard work, dedication and commitment, I was subsequently given the opportunity to become a staff member. Having experienced DUT as a student, an intern and now an employee, I have witnessed different aspects of the institution. Each stage has contributed to my personal and professional growth and strengthened my appreciation of the opportunities DUT provides.”

Q: Which of the ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles resonates most with you, and why?

A: “The values I associate with most are compassion and integrity. Compassion means understanding people’s circumstances, listening without judgement and offering support when needed. As a Residence Advisor, I believe it is important to ensure that students feel heard, respected and supported, particularly when facing challenges. Integrity means doing the right thing even when nobody is watching. In my procurement role, this means being honest, adhering to university policies and procedures, and carrying out my responsibilities ethically and professionally. I believe compassion reminds us to care for others, while integrity encourages us to remain true to our principles. Together, these values help create a university environment built on trust, fairness and mutual respect.”

Q: What does DUT’s tagline, Creative, Distinctive, Impactful, mean to you?

A: “I believe these three qualities complement one another. Creativity helps us find solutions, being distinctive defines what makes us unique, and impact demonstrates the value of our contributions. Together, they remind us to think differently, embrace what sets us apart and make a meaningful difference through our work.”

Q: How do you plan to familiarise yourself with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework and put it into practice?

A: “I plan to familiarise myself continuously with the framework, its values and the behaviours expected of members of the DUT community. I will also take advantage of university communications, workshops, engagements and other learning opportunities to deepen my understanding of ENVISION2030 and its strategic direction. Most importantly, I want to apply these values in my daily responsibilities and interactions with colleagues and students, ensuring that they are reflected in how I serve others and carry out my work.”

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

A: “I am a strong believer in God. My faith is an important part of my life and influences how I view the world, treat people and approach life’s challenges. I believe that everything happens for a reason and that everyone has their own time. My faith teaches me to remain patient, humble and hopeful, even when things do not go according to plan. It reminds me that everyone’s journey is different and that I should not compare my progress with that of others. Believing that God has a purpose for my life gives me the strength to keep moving forward, even during difficult times.”

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

A: “The framework will help create a shared understanding of the behaviours, attitudes and principles that should guide everyone within the university community. DUT brings together people with different responsibilities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. A common framework helps us work towards shared institutional goals while recognising that our individual actions contribute to the university’s reputation and overall success. By putting these values into practice, we can strengthen collaboration, accountability and mutual respect across the institution.”

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

A: “I enjoy listening to music and writing. I often find myself with a pen in my hand, putting my thoughts on paper about my personal experiences, observations and the social and economic issues affecting our society. Writing gives me an opportunity to reflect, express myself and explore different perspectives.”

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

A: “I plan to make a positive impact by being intentional about how I serve, lead and interact with the people around me. I want to contribute to a culture where people are supported in their growth, encouraged to pursue their ambitions and reminded that everyone has a role to play in DUT’s success. For me, making a difference starts with how we treat people, fulfil our responsibilities and use the opportunities we have to support others.”

Q: What motivates you each day?

A: “My faith in God motivates me, as does my belief that everything happens for a reason and that everyone has their own time. I remind myself that my present circumstances do not have to determine my future. My past is part of my story, but it does not define the limits of what I can achieve. I always remind myself that although I may not yet be where I want to be, I am no longer where I used to be. That perspective encourages me to keep growing and moving forward.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “As DUT continues to develop adaptive, distinctive and impactful graduates, I want my own journey to reflect the spirit of this vision. I believe growth does not end when one graduates. It continues through lifelong learning, service, leadership and a willingness to make a difference. My goal is to grow professionally with DUT, contribute to its long-term success and, one day, serve at executive level. I aspire to develop the knowledge, integrity and compassion needed to make decisions that benefit the institution and its people.”

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

A: “My wish would be to see young people given meaningful opportunities to build dignified, fulfilling and productive lives. One of my greatest concerns is seeing young people work hard to obtain qualifications and make significant sacrifices for their education, only to struggle to find opportunities to apply what they have learned. It is painful to see potential go unrealised because of limited access to employment, mentorship, resources or support at the right time. I would like to see a society where young people are given a fair chance to contribute, develop their talents and build better futures for themselves and their communities.”