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 Velemseni Cele who is a security officer at DUT’s Steve Biko Campus.

Q: What are your duties at DUT? 

A: “I provide the campus with security services such as ensuring that students and staff are safe at all times on campus.” 

Q: How long have you been working at DUT? 

A: “I have been working for five years at DUT.” 

Q: How would you describe yourself? 

A: “I am a very good hearted person. I am patient and try by all means to be kind to all people.”

Q: How do you cope with rising numbers of infections at DUT, especially since you are on duty? 

A: “It is scary. As a worker, it is not easy, because my life is in danger. I live by prayer.” 

Q: How do you deal with students who want to enter the DUT premises during this time of COVID-19? 

A: “At the moment we do not allow students to enter the campus since the number keeps on rising. It is not safe.”

Q: How do you de-stress? 

A: “I hang out with my family and friends most of the time. We always share jokes.” 

Q: Your typical day entails… 

A: “I do not usually plan my day; I see as it goes.” 

Q: What are your hobbies? 

A: “Soccer and listening to music. I love sports a lot.” 

Q: What is your favourite moment in the day? 

A: “My happiest moment is when I knock off.” 

Q: Are you a series or reality TV series person? 

A: “I watch soccer and also music channels.” 

Q: What is your practical advice or mantra that you follow and would impart students is? 

A: “Respect. Do what you came here to do. Make your parents proud.”