The Durban University of Technology (DUT) continues to commend all its essential service workers for their dedication and commitment in providing services to the DUT community during the COVID-19 pandemic. DUT’s Communications team’s Nikiwe Sukazi spoke to one of the frontline workers, Mr Bhekizenzo Hadebe who is a Security Officer at DUT Steve Biko Campus gate 1 to 7. Mr Bhekizenzo Hadebe has been in the forefront since he started working in October 2020. 

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT? 

A: “I work as a Security Officer. I serve and protect every person and vehicle that enters the DUT premises.” 

Q: How long have you been at DUT in that role? 

A: “I started in October 2020, therefore this is my sixth month working at DUT.” 

Q: How would you describe yourself? 

A: “I am a very shy, caring and very respectful individual.” 

Q: What are your hobbies? 

A: “I love playing football.” 

Q: How do you cope with the rising numbers of infections at DUT especially because you are always on duty? 

A: “I work by the gate so sometimes it is scary and hard but I try my best. There are high chances of getting infected by the virus since I work with people every day. I make sure it does not come to that by following the COVID-19 guidelines and protocols set by the University COVID-19 Response Task Team.” 

Q: How do you accomplish your duties during these trying times? 

A: “The first thing I make sure that every student and staff member do not enter the University premises without wearing a mask, they are screened, sanitised and well-reminded of the COVID-19 rules before their access to the University is granted.” 

Q: Are you a series or reality TV person? 

A: “A series person.” 

Q: Your practical advice you follow and like to convey on students is? 

A: “Show respect to everyone and try by all means to stay calm and positive no matter how bad the situation may be.”