The Durban University of Technology (DUT) continues to commend all its essential workers for their dedication and commitment in providing services to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. DUT’s Communications team’s Simangele Zuma spoke to Ms Nivedhna Singh, the Siyaphumelela Project Coordinator at DUT.
Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?
A: “I coordinate the Siyaphumelela project at DUT, a student success initiative. I am very passionate about student success and academic development. I am very excited to be part of this ground-breaking project.”
Q: How long have you been in that role?
A: “Since May 2021, it is almost a year now.”
Q: Please describe yourself in a few words?
A: “I would like to think I am creative, bubbly and a go-getter. I am a mum, daughter, and sister to a wonderful supportive family. I am a researcher by qualification but I am passionate about student success initiatives in the field of education.”
Q: How has it been like working during COVID-19?
A: “Good, DUT made the transition for staff seamless, I was given what I needed to work efficiently. I work with an amazing team of people. I was supported, it really was effortless, so I am very grateful.”
Q: How do you deal with the fear of contracting COVID-19 and losing loved ones due to this virus?
A: “Fairly well, vaccination is crucial for everyone. It is important to practice good hygiene and habits ensuring we always use a mask and sanitise.”
Q: What is your daily motivation?
A: “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”
Q: Please take me through a normal day in your life?
A: “My day begins with an expression of gratitude for all that I have, morning cuddles with my son, getting us ready, school drop offs, work and breakfast, work tasks and activities/meetings, midday pick up from school, finishing off my tasks, afternoon activity of soccer or a walk with my son, evening run of supper and bath time and bedtime stories. It sounds busy, it can be stressful but very fulfilling.”
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: “I love spending time with my family and friends, I am an avid-reader and I enjoy cooking and since COVID-19, I have an interest in baking.”
Q: If you had one wish what would it be?
A: “World Peace. As a realist, we all have an opportunity and responsibility to make a difference. My wish is to create some positive change and leave a legacy in the world- basically to leave it in a better place than I found it.”
