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, Patience Makhaye recently engaged in a conversation with Ayanda Msomi, a Sport Coordinator at the Sport Administration unit, delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am a Sport Coordinator within the Sport Administration unit. I oversee Rugby, Aquatics, Cheerleading and Football student sports codes. In addition, I am also under the Student Housing and Residence Life Unit within the institution, my role in this unit is carrying out duties as a Residence Advisor. I have been working in the institution for the past five years and I am still eager and hungry to contribute to achieving the universal university goals of ENVISION2030.”

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

A: “Since 2016 as a student and 2021 as a staff member. I am currently registered for a Master’s degree within the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management at DUT and I am on par to complete my research by June 2025.”

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

A: “I value respect due to my nature to coordinate with people, in a bid to achieve project objectives, for me respect is how loyalty may be built upon and therefore may lead to a synchronised team performance. Compassion is my second favourite ENVISION2030 Living Value, because we live in an unequal society, however, students who come to our institution have a great opportunity to build wealth, knowledge and a competitive edge which allows them to sit in rooms with other students who come from more privileged backgrounds. To successfully inspire such students, compassion and understanding is a prerequisite to drive the conversations forward.”

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

A: “It’s an appropriate type of beacon set up to help all stakeholders with a vested interest in the institution to remain focused on our mission.”

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

A: “Read more relevant newsletters published on DUT Pinboard and keep an eye on the institution’s social media platforms (i.e. Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter).”

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

A: “I’m quite an introverted person, many people think I’m just that social young man with an open heart that loves doing work which contribute to the betterment of his society. But the reality is that I spend a lot of time on my own, where I reflect on the good experiences in my life and on those experiences which have challenged me to grow and adopt in an ever so fast rotating world.”

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

A: “It will attract a particular kind of learner, which looks to build his/her character while part of the student journey to successfully attain their graduate attributes – which will help the said student adapt to industry demands.”

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

A: “Read, hike, journal and dine in my favourite Durban cuisine spots.”

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

A: “Continue to advise students in my work space responsibly and provide them with the best outcomes that I have control over while I commit to serving them.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A: “I enjoy life, though it has its up and downs much like a thrilling roller coaster ride. However, in my opinion waking up every day is God’s blessing and a man’s opportunity to do better in whichever space one may find themselves in.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?  

A: “Complete my research study and lecture one day.”

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

A: “I wish I could perhaps live to witness the day Artificial Intelligence (AI) completely emerges and see how human beings will interact with such a high level of technology. Many movies have provided their prediction but seeing is believing.”