The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has adopted the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, centred around five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are supported by the key principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion, and excellence. DUT Communications team member, Thubelihle Dumakude,  recently engaged in a conversation with Solomon Nyamurima, Director of the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CSERI) 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 the Director of the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CSERI) at the Durban University of Technology. My role involves leading the incubator in nurturing entrepreneurship, supporting start-up businesses, and driving innovation to create sustainable enterprises that contribute to socio-economic development.”

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

A: “I have been part of the DUT family for almost 9 years.”

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

A: “I strongly associate with integrity because it is the foundation of ethical leadership and responsible decision-making. As a leader in entrepreneurship development, integrity ensures that I uphold honesty, trustworthiness, and transparency in all engagements with students, entrepreneurs, and partners. It is essential in building credibility and nurturing long-term relationships in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

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

A: “The DUT tagline clearly spells out its strategic direction as creativity ignites innovation and entrepreneurship ,distinctiveness ensures that DUT stands out as a leader in research, innovation and entrepreneurship, and impactful reflects our commitment to making a meaningful difference in society.”

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

A: “ In order to keep abreast of the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework I plan to incorporate into CSERI culture and operations all the livings values such as transparency, honesty, integrity, respect, and accountability. I will also continue to participate in DUT’s strategic leadership discussions, training programs, and strategic initiatives to continuously align CSERI’s goals with the broader ENVISION2030 vision.”

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

A: “I am a very passionate farmer.”

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

A: “I think the framework benefits DUT in that it creates a culture of ethical leadership, innovation, and accountability, ensuring that DUT remains a reputable and transformative institution. DUT will also not only enhance the student experience but also strengthen relationships with stakeholders, foster social cohesion, and drive sustainable development.”

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

A: “I enjoy exploring nature, reading books and spending quality time with my family.”

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

A: “I plan to expand CSERI incubation programs, establish strategic partnerships, and implement innovative business development models that will have a lasting socio-economic impact on entrepreneurship at DUT.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “ Knowing that what I do every day contributes to the socio-economic empowerment of individuals keeps me driven and focused on making a difference.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “To scale-up CSERI’s impact, to develop a sustainable funding model for CSERI, to enhance research in social entrepreneurship development, and strengthening DUT’s role in shaping the future of business incubation in South Africa.”

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

A: “I wish for a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that guarantees opportunities for every aspiring entrepreneur to succeed, regardless of their background.”