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 Publications Officer Waheeda Peters, recently engaged in a conversation with Clarence Mthokozisi Nxumalo, a Technical Assistant in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), to delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am a Technical Assistant at the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.”

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

A: “I have been a member of the DUT family for 14 years.”

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

A: “I mostly associate myself with Respect, because it goes a long way in creating a fair work environment, hence I am the senior staff . I strongly believe  that through respect, staff engagement increases and staff performance is enhanced.”

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

A: “Creativity-There is a room to come up with creative ideas. Creativity is for everyone regardless of the position you are at. DUT has openly encouraged staff  to express their creativity skills and talent showcasing i.e. my office is a testimony as a creative, transformed office through 3D artwork wall painting. Distinctive-In today’s dynamic and competitive work environment, institutions recognise the significance of diversity and uniqueness, so be yourself and do not copy anyone’s style-be a natural person on earth and not an artificial somebody, remember we are unique, and we should embrace our uniqueness. Impactful-to build a strong relationships within the DUT family, thus it will create a harmonious work environment, improve teamwork, trust, boost morale and supporting my peers.”

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

A: “I will  engage myself with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, through fully participating and involvement in any sessions or tasks given.”

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

A: “I  am a very creative person.”

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

A: “DUT will benefit by having a productive, united, supportive, motivated, and creative staff in order to attain the ENVISION2030 Living Values.”

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

A: “In my spare time I do Ballroom and Latin American dance professionally, I sing and conduct choral choir music, community work and lastly but not least  I do 3D wall painting artwork.”

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

A: “I will strive to contribute to the best of my ability and mainly focusing on obeying the basic principle of honestly, excellence, integrity, and innovation.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A: “If you can change your mind, you can change your life.”

Q: What are your future goals at  DUT? 

A: “My future goals at DUT is to obtain a PhD qualification.”

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

A: “To make  a significant  change in someone’s life.”