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 and Marketing Officer from the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Silindile Buthelezi, recently engaged in a conversation with Dr Nkosinathi Manqele, a  lecturer for the Nautical Studies programme and the Interim Head of Department of Maritime Studies 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  lecturer for the Nautical Studies programme and the Interim Head of Department of Maritime Studies.”

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

A: “I have a member of the DUT family for 15 years.”

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

A: “Respect as it creates a healthy and a conducive environment for people to work. Fairness-creates equal opportunities for everyone and boosts the confidence of each individual in an organisation. Excellence-makes people want to work towards perfection.”

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

A: “Creative. Distinctive. Impactful is a focus on achieving such goals and can grow the universities’ influence within its society and beyond.”

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

A: “By being motivational to peers and colleagues and consistently encouraging staff members and students to maintain certain values within the organisation.”

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

A: “That I have always put my organisation ahead of my own dreams.”

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

A: “It is a framework within which the DUT community’s behaviour is confined to.”

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

A:  “I like to spend time with my family, entertain friends, and I enjoy playing a game of soccer.”

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

A: “Relocate the Maritime Studies Department closer to the ocean where it belongs.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A: “Knowing that we have helped so many youngsters realise their passion in the maritime sector.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?   

A:  “To obtain my professorship in the maritime department.”

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

A: “I wish that all people can do their job with zeal and diligence and be rewarded equitably for it.”