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, Sinamile Sithole recently engaged in a conversation with Sindiswa Khuzwayo, Marketing intern at the innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, to delve deeper into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am the marketing intern at the innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. I also serve as the coordinator of the innobiz DUT Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP) Chapter.”

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

A: “I started working at DUT this year, 2024. However, I am a DUT alumna and so I have always been part of the DUT community.”

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

A: “I mostly associate with commitment. I relate to commitment because I believe that staying dedicated and focused on my goals leads to success. Commitment gives me the drive to persevere through challenges and stay true to my responsibilities, both personally and professionally.”

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

A: “I believe that creativity is key to innovation and growth. Being distinctive sets DUT apart from other institutions and the emphasis on being impactful reflects DUT’s commitment to making a meaningful and positive difference in the world.”

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

A: “I aim to incorporate these values into my daily life and work by seeking out opportunities to contribute to the execution of these values within the DUT community. I think it is also important to stay informed about the ongoing initiatives and developments that are related to the ENVISION2030 living values.”

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

A: “I have always had a deep appreciation for art in all its forms. For me, the beauty and creativity of art enriches me in many ways.”

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

A: “I believe that it will help create a positive and supportive campus culture. It will also enhance better decision making and create a sense of community and belonging among students and staff.”

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

A: “I enjoy spending time with my family.”

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

A: “My plan to make a positive impact at DUT revolves around my role in fostering entrepreneurship and empowering students. Working at the innobiz DUT, I aim to support student entrepreneurs. Additionally, as the coordinator of Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP), I am dedicated to empowering female students, giving them the skills and knowledge to thrive in the business world. By leveraging these roles, I intend to contribute to the university’s culture of innovation and empowerment, making a meaningful and lasting impact on the DUT community.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?  

A:”Don’t watch the clock, do what it does. Keep going.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “Furthering the efforts of innobiz DUT while also enhancing the impact of the SWEEP programme in empowering female students.”

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

A: “I would wish for a hundred more wishes.”