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 Community Engagement Liaison’s Phumeza Msongelwa recently engaged in a conversation with Nandipha Nkalitshana, a Research Administrative 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 serving at DUT as a Research Administrative Assistant in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.”

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

A: “It’s been a wonderful period of eight months.”

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

A: “I associate with the living values and principles of respect, transparency, integrity, and honesty, and I would say I mostly associate with integrity. I strive in maintaining consistency in doing the right thing even when no one is watching and being accountable for my actions. I value being true to the institution’s principles and holding myself to high ethical standards.”

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

A: “The DUT tagline conveys a strong and dynamic message about the institution’s vision and values. The institution suggests a commitment to fostering innovation and thinking outside the box. It implies that DUT values originality and encourages its community to explore new ideas and approaches. DUT also aims to stand out from other institutions by offering something special or different, through its programmes, culture, and approach to education.”

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

A: “By staying informed about any updates or changes to the framework by subscribing to relevant newsletters or updates from the organisation. Participating in training sessions, workshops, or webinars focused on the Living Values Framework. This would help me in understanding the practical application of values like respect, transparency, integrity, and honesty.”

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

A: “One thing that most people might not know about me is that I  am a preacher of the Gospel of Christ Jesus and I have a deep appreciation for the arts, which is music.”

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

A: “The ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework can bring significant benefits to DUT in several ways, namely: it will enhance institutional reputation, by adhering to values such as respect, transparency, integrity, and honesty, DUT can strengthen its reputation as a principled and ethical institution. This can attract prospective students, faculty, and partners who value these principles. It will create a positive work environment, emphasising respect and transparency which can foster a more inclusive and collaborative work environment. This can enhance job satisfaction, reduce conflicts, and promote a positive organisational culture.”

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

A: “I love diving into new books, exploring diverse topics, and learning about different cultures and ideas.”

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

A: “By committing to continuous learning and professional growth that would allow me to stay current with industry trends and best practices, which can be applied to my work at DUT.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A: “Believing that I have a divine calling that inspires me to live out my values and fulfil my potential.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT? 

A: “To align my efforts with DUT’s strategic objectives, contributing to the university’s growth and reputation by supporting its vision and mission. To grow within the institution and continue making a great impact.”

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

A: “I would wish for the ability to help people universally to understand  the importance of empathising with each other.”