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 Communications team member Patience Makhaye, recently engaged in a conversation with Mhlengi Dlamini, a Project Specialist within the Real Estate Management department, to delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “As a Project Specialist my role and responsibility is to lead, direct, plan, organise and execute multiple global programmes with the PMO office. From cycle design to implementation, my role is responsible for achieving successful implementation of projects and managing all activities required to define, design, development on projects. I’m also accountable for the overall programme execution and ensuring team commitments (project contracts) are met and communicated promptly.”

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

A: “I joined DUT on 1 September 2023, making the year 2024 to be my 10th month of service.”

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

A: “It’s clear that I prioritise values such as transparency, honesty, integrity, respect, and accountability in my working environment and project initiatives at DUT. These values are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and contributing effectively to the university’s mandates and practices. These values not only enhance the quality of education and research but also uphold the university’s reputation and commitment to excellence. By continuing to embody these values in my work, they play a vital role in advancing the university’s mission and achieving its strategic objectives.”

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

A: “ The tagline serves as a guiding principle for all staff members at Durban University of Technology (DUT), emphasising the commitment to serving the university community while maintaining high standards of quality of life for both staff and students. This approach not only enhances institutional reputation but also promotes a positive and supportive environment conducive to academic and personal growth.”

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

A: “By strategically aligning our project management office (PMO) with the ENVISION2030 mandate, we can effectively contribute to the university’s overarching goals and demonstrate meaningful impact in areas critical to its mission and vision. Consider the long-term sustainability of the impacts generated by your projects. Explore opportunities to institutionalise successful practices, integrate findings into curriculum or policy, and advocate for ongoing support for initiatives that align with ENVISION2030.”

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

A: “I am a very shy person.”

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

A: “In my own opinion, leveraging ENVISION2030 and similar initiatives, DUT can indeed lead the charge in transforming the narrative about African universities, demonstrating capabilities in delivering high-quality education, research, and service that rival international standards. This proactive approach not only enhances institutional prestige but also contributes to the development and prosperity of the broader African educational landscape.”

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

A: “I enjoy spending time in nature whenever I get the chance because it helps me to recharge and reconnect with my thoughts. As a person with a desk job, I spend most of my days indoors in front of my computer, which I realise is quite unhealthy. So every day, I make a conscious effort to step outside and go for a long walk to ensure I’m productive throughout the day. During the weekends, instead of going to gatherings, I often spend my days at gym, meditating in nature, doing fun activities in open spaces .These hobby helps me stay active while also positively influencing my work performance.”

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

A: “I plan on making an impact by fostering dynamic initiatives that prioritise the well-being and support of colleagues and students aligns perfectly with the holistic vision of ENVISION2030. By integrating these dynamic initiatives into ENVISION2030, Durban University of Technology can nurture a supportive and caring academic community where colleagues and students thrive academically, professionally, and personally.”

 Q: What is your daily motivation? 

A: “My daily motivation is what enables me to strive to be a better person, to work towards my goals, and to lead a fulfilling life with no regrets.”

 Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “ My future goals are all interlinked as I care about being the best I can be and being as successful as I can be in life. It is a personal goal of mine to succeed in everything I can do as much as I can’t always win but I have learnt through the journey of life and to just focus on myself and to focus on the mindset that I can truly do whatever I want as long as I put my mind to it.”

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

A: “ If I were granted one wish, I would wish for the advancement of humanity towards a future where everyone has access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. This wish encompasses the elimination of barriers such as inequality, poverty, and discrimination, allowing every individual to reach their full potential and to contribute positively to society.”