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 Media Officer Simangele Zuma, recently engaged in a conversation with Samkelisiwe Evelyn Sibisi, an Administrative Assistant at the Student Admissions unit, to delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am currently an Administrative Assistant at the Student Admissions unit.”

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

A: “I have been a member of the DUT family for 10 months.”

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

A: “I mostly relate to accountability. Being able to take responsibility for ones work and actions within the workplace ensures that one is able to keep up with the standard set in place by the organisation.”

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

A: “The DUT tagline encompasses exactly what an innovative institution should implement. So, my view is that the tagline inspires every individual, whether staff or student ensures that they are creative and distinctive, bearing a positive impact on the institution and society as a whole.”

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

A: “By being a professional staff member at DUT and in keeping with being transparent by ensuring that my work reflects my commitment to the institution.”

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

A: “Contrary to popular belief, I am actually quite shy. “

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

A: “The ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework will benefit DUT because this means we will all have one common goal that we are working towards which is to see the framework being actualised by 2030 thus creating a harmonious relationship between the institution and its members.”

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

A: “I thoroughly enjoy my time alone and pampering myself, so spa dates are absolutely essential.”

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

A: “I would like to make a positive impact by ensuring that I uphold the ENVISION2030 values and principles at every opportune moment.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?   

A: “My daily motivation is knowing that nothing is impossible, constantly ensuring that I set clear, achievable goals for myself, celebrating small wins and keeping a positive mindset.”

 Q: What are your future goals at DUT?   

A: “I am currently in a unit where I am utilising my skills and knowledge efficiently with the end goal being to continue learning as much as I can from my colleagues and as such, pursuing a highly rewarding career.”

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

A: “To be listed in the Forbes under 40 as a billionaire.”