As of 18 July 2022, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) staff and students have physically returned to campus after the relaxation of the public health mandates and the COVID-19 restrictions. To get insight on getting back to the ‘new’ normal, DUT’s Communications team Zanele Mashaba spoke to Ms Thembisa Mjwacu, Lecturer for Public Relations and Communications Management.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role and the duration you have been at DUT?

A: “I joined DUT in 2004. I am a lecturer for Public Relations and Communications Management which falls under the Department of Applied Management. My role is mainly lecturing (facilitating teaching and learning) at all levels of our qualification, and any other departmental administration that may be required from time to time.”

Q: How has it been like to physically return to campus after the relaxation of the COVID-19 restrictions?

A: “For me nothing has changed because I have always been coming to campus. The only change is that now there is more of us, the campus is back to life and it feels good to finally link the names to the faces for most of students whom we have never seen face-to-face since they started their journey with us.”

Q: What are some of your coping mechanisms, helping you adapt to working/studying on site?

A: “As stated above, to me it has always been business as usual. However, my coping mechanism every day is listening to some good music while working in my office, I always have one earphone on, while the other ear is free so I can hear if someone is at my door. Also, checking on my colleagues through the phone or going to their offices for a few minutes gives me that drive and sense that we are here, I am not alone.”

Q: What do you miss the most about working/studying online?

A: “Flexibility; with online classes I could teach anywhere, not limited by any venue capacity or availability.”

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

A: “I am reserved and emotionally sensitive, as a result people who don’t know me well often think I am unfriendly and unapproachable.”

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

A: “I have two boys, I like playing with them; I also enjoy going out with friends or hosting them in my home.”