Taking COSATU Today Forward, 28 April 2026 #CosatuMayDay2026
Norman Mampane
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COSATU TODAY COSATU Call Center Contacts: 010 002 2590 #COSATU National May Day celebrations countdown underway… #ClassWar #Cosatu40 #SACTU70 #ClassStruggle “Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism” #Back2Basics #JoinCOSATUNow #ClassConsciousness |
Taking COSATU Today Forward
‘Whoever sides with the revolutionary people in deed as well as in word is a revolutionary in the full sense’-Maoo
Our side of the story
28 April 2026
“Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism”
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Contents
- Workers Parliament: Back to Basics!
- Media Alert: COSATU will present its submission on the Budget's Special Appropriation Bill to Parliament 28 April 2026
- NUM Post-NEC Statement
- NUM condemns systemic denial of organisational rights at Impala Platinum Triple M and defends lawful strike action
- What is the Draft National Rail Master Plan (NRMP)?
- Media Alert: DENOSA to co-host International Nurses Day national event with Eastern Cape Department of Health in KuGompo on 12 May 2026
- Media accreditation for COSATU May Day celebrations officially open
- South Africa
- COSATU urges its Alliance Partners to desist from any statements and actions that may weaken the Tripartite Alliance
- COSATU observes 32 years of democracy this Freedom Day
- COSATU Limpopo poised to host National May Day Rally
- SADTU Free State Statement Post the Elective Provincial Conference
- NSFAS on allowance payments at TVET colleges
- SADTU condemns the arrest and intimidation of SNAT General Secretary Lot Vilakati and Eswatini Union Leaders
- International-Workers’ Solidarity!
- Concerns over trade union rights at Schindler operations in Türkiye
Workers’ Parliament-Back2Basics #ClassWar
Media Alert: COSATU will present its submission on the Budget's Special Appropriation Bill to Parliament 28 April 2026
Matthew Parks, COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator, 27 April 2026
Media Alert: COSATU will present its submission on the Special Appropriation Bill (2025/26 Budget supplementary allocations to departments and state-owned enterprises) to Parliament’s Select Committee: Appropriations from 10am Tuesday, 28 April 2026 (virtual platform).
Issued by COSATU
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NUM Post-NEC Statement
Mpho Phakedi, NUM General Secretary, 26 APRIL 2026
NUM NEC asserts leadership on key sectoral challenges
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) successfully convened its scheduled constitutional meeting on the 22nd and 23rd of April 2026 at the NUM's College Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre (EBMTC).
As the highest decision-making body between National Congresses, the NEC met to deliberate on critical issues impacting our members in the mining, construction, energy and metal sectors. In a climate of shifting economic pressures and evolving industrial landscapes, the NEC has taken a firm stance on several key issues aimed at protecting the livelihoods and dignity of the working class.
The NEC hereby pronounces on the following matters:
On Health and Safety: Enforcing Accountability for Mine Fatalities.
The NEC expresses its deep outrage at the continued loss of life within the mining sector. For the NUM, these are not merely statistics; they are human beings, breadwinners, and our members whose lives are being sacrificed for profit.
To curb this carnage, the NEC has resolved to take an uncompromising stance on the implementation of Section 72 of the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA). The union will no longer tolerate the shelving of inquiry recommendations.
Key NEC Resolutions:
• Mandatory Implementation: The NUM demands that all findings and safety recommendations arising from Section 72 inquiries be implemented immediately by employers to prevent the recurrence of similar tragedies.
• Legal Action & Prosecution: The NUM will aggressively pursue the legal route to ensure that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) acts on inquiry findings. Where negligence is identified, we demand the criminal prosecution of those responsible.
• Transparency: We insist that all Section 72 reports be made accessible to workers and displayed at mines as mandated by law.
The era of "investigate and forget" is over. The NUM will use every legal mechanism at its disposal to ensure that every worker returns home alive and unharmed.
Economic Challenges
The NEC also reflected on the economic challenges faced by the country, workers and broader society. The impact of retrenchments in the mining and metal sectors is a concern to us as an organisation. Since 2024, there has been a bloodbath of job losses. The impact on the ferrochrome sector is very high, as both Glencore and Samancor are currently engaging in a retrenchment process.
The NEC resolved to embark on campaigns against the cost of living and outsourcing /subcontracting by mining companies. The workers are highly affected by the cost of living while they are employed; the situation is worse for the unemployed. The cost of electricity, fuel, food prices, and transport continues to escalate.
Eskom Wages
The NEC welcomed the conclusion of wage negotiations and applauded the team. We acknowledge the difficulty that parties have gone through in this process. Wage negotiations by their nature are not an easy process, but a give-and-take process. The NUM will continue to prioritise workers' interests and challenge employers who put profit before workers.
We further condemn employers who pay themselves handsome bonuses and salaries and continue to pay workers peanuts.
With regard to unbundling and privatisation of Eskom, the NEC resolved to continue to fight the intended privatisation by the government. We call upon all formations of society to come together to fight this battle. Workers cannot fold their hands when the electricity utility is privatised; this will lead to expensive electricity to consumers, sectors that are electricity dependent, and high consumers will be negatively affected, leading to job losses across all sectors.
The union is ready to defend the interests of workers, including litigating against privatisation.
Parliamentary Work
The NEC reflected on the work of the parliament in relation to workers and the broader society as the revolutionary union. We are noting with concern the deterioration in portfolio committees in transforming and developing the country economically.
Portfolio committees are focusing on administration issues that are not improving or changing the lives of poor people and workers. The NEC was critical of the work of portfolio committees in our sectors and came to one conclusion. The impact of GNU seems to be looking at the interests of business and those who are against the poor and the workers.
The NEC further agreed to intensify its work on parliamentary work through our parliamentary office. We will engage all progressive formations in the society with a view to lobby them to support our submissions and common issues of interest.
COSATU May Day Rallies
As the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) prepares to join the COSATU May Day Rallies ON MAY 1, the NEC has expressed grave concern regarding the systematic onslaught currently facing the working class.
The Crisis of Retrenchments and Casualisation.
The NEC notes with deep anger that workers in the mining, energy, construction, and metal sectors are facing mass retrenchments. We are witnessing a disturbing trend where companies are discarding permanent employees only to replace them with contractors.
This is a blatant attempt to bypass labour rights, resulting in "slavery salaries," extreme exploitation, and deteriorating health and safety standards in the workplace.
The Attack on the Working Class
The NUM further condemns the coordinated attack on collective bargaining by both the public and private sectors. Coupled with harsh austerity measures, the government is failing to provide essential services to working-class communities.
These systemic failures are exacerbated by:
• The Rising Cost of Living: Decimating the disposable income of workers and their families.
• Unemployment: A staggering 33% unemployment rate that remains a national crisis.
• Crime: Unchecked crime rates that threaten the safety of our members and their households.
A Call to Mobilize
The struggle for a living wage and job security is far from over. The NUM calls on all its members to mobilise and attend the COSATU May Day Rallies on May 1.
We must stand united against the erosion of our hard-won rights.
Freedom Day
The NEC reflected on the significant gains of our democracy as South Africa prepares to commemorate Freedom Day this Monday, 27 April 2026. While acknowledging the progress made since the 1994 democratic breakthrough, the NEC remains acutely aware of the persistent challenges facing the majority of our people.
The NEC deliberated extensively on the "triple challenges" of poverty, inequality, and unemployment, which continue to weigh heavily on the working class and local communities. Despite years of democratic governance, these issues remain prevalent and require urgent, decisive action.
In reviewing the evolving political landscape, the NEC noted the impact of the recent General Election, which resulted in the Government of National Unity (GNU), as well as the various municipal coalitions arising from previous local elections. As we celebrate our freedom, the NUM remains vigilant and "alive" to the socio-economic pressures facing workers.
We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that this shifting political climate does not compromise the interests of the poor or the hard-won rights of the labour movement.
International Front
Middle East War Over Natural Resources.
The NEC reflected on the war in the Middle East led by imperialist USA and its ally, the apartheid Israel. We strongly condemn the war waged based on economic interest disguised as justice and peace.
We applaud the international communities, including religious formations that did not shy away from condemning the US President Donald Trump administration and his friends.
We are noting with concern the negative impact of the global economy due to this war. The hiked oil price continues to affect workers and society at large, particularly in countries of the South.
The NEC, resolved to continue to support the people of Iran and Venezuela against the imperialist attack, the leadership will visit both embassies to give a message of support.
CUBA
The NEC reiterate its support for the people of Cuba against the economic USA blockade. The impact is perpetuated by the attack by the USA on Venezuela and the oil blockade.
The NEC applauded Russia for its bravery in intervening in Cuba during a difficult time by supplying oil in support of the country.
The NUM will continue to support Cuba in any way possible in appreciation of what they have done for the liberation of the country and the support given upon the dawn of democracy.
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NUM condemns systemic denial of organisational rights at Impala Platinum Triple M and defends lawful strike action
William Shiko, NUM Rustenburg Region Deputy Secretary, 26 April 2026
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) places on record the protracted and frustrating history of bad faith that has compelled workers at Impala Platinum Triple M to embark on protected strike action, that commenced early hours of Friday, 24 April 2026 in Rustenburg..
A History of Obstruction The road to this strike began in May 2025, when a dispute regarding organisational rights was conciliated at the CCMA. Despite a direct order to verify membership, the process was deliberately frustrated for four months—a calculated delay that served only to deny workers their lawful rights.
Faced with continued obstruction, NUM returned to the CCMA in October 2025 to request physical facilitation of the verification. The results, finalised in February 2026, were definitive: NUM has exceeded the 40% threshold required for formal recognition.
The Failure of Good Faith Despite this clear mandate, Triple M management continues to hide behind a frivolous and legally flawed interpretation of a "closed shop" agreement. NUM has acted with unparalleled good faith, invoking Section 26 of the Labour Relations Act, submitting petitions, and requesting a lawful ballot process. Every democratic effort has been met with employer silence.
Having exhausted every legal avenue, NUM referred a Section 64 dispute to the CCMA. On 23 April 2026, the Commission granted picketing rules in favour of NUM. Consequently, workers officially commenced protected strike action in the early hours of this morning.
The "Brotherhood Syndrome" NUM is deeply disturbed by an emerging "brotherhood syndrome" involving the main employer, Impala Platinum. It appears contractors are being actively discouraged from recognising NUM—a collusion that fundamentally undermines the Constitutional right to freedom of association.
A Moral Boundary Crossed Most egregious is the treatment of workers in the wake of tragedy. We have been informed of instances where contract workers lose their lives, yet service providers are allegedly blocked from independently arranging transport or funerals, with bereaved families directed through the structures of a rival union.
NUM states unequivocally: Death must never be unionised, politicised, or used as a tool for division. Dignity in grief is a human right, not a bargaining chip.
Our Call to Action NUM calls upon Triple M, Impala Platinum, and all relevant stakeholders to:
1. Respect the Labour Relations Act and the democratic choices of the workforce.
2. Immediately grant NUM the organisational rights it has lawfully earned through verified membership.
3. Cease the delay tactics that have come to define this dispute.
The era of suppressing workers’ voices through administrative attrition must end. We remain resolute in our defense of our members.
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What is the Draft National Rail Master Plan (NRMP)?
Building on the National Transport Master Plan 2050, the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy and the 2023 National Freight Logistics Roadmap, the Department of Transport has developed the NRMP to guide the future of rail in South Africa.
The plan is a critical step towards optimising existing infrastructure and directing investment to build a modern, high-performance rail network.
Read
more:
https://zurl.co/8WNlt
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Media Alert: DENOSA to co-host International Nurses Day national event with Eastern Cape Department of Health in KuGompo on 12 May 2026
Sibongiseni Delihlazo, DENOSA Communications Manager, 23 April 2026
PRETORIA – As a nursing association in South Africa, the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) will be collaborating with the Eastern Cape Department of Health in hosting this year’s International Nurses Day national event, which will be held at the Christian Church in KuGompo City (formerly East London) on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, to outline action plans that are needed to resolve the many life-saving nursing challenges in both the province and nationally.
Members of the media are cordially invited to attend the main event on 12 May 2026 to report. Members of the media are advised to RSVP on or before Friday 8 May 2026 at 10:00 (See contact details below).
Government leaders nationally and provincially are expected to form part of the main event which commemorates Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing. The International Nurses Day is commemorated annually, and is one of the significant days in the Health Calendar as it celebrates the majority healthcare professionals in the healthcare setting throughout the world.
DENOSA President, Simon Hlungwani, will be delivering the keynote address at the event on behalf of ICN, wherein he will be tabling the action plan, based on the International Nurses Day’s evidence-based Report, that needs to be implemented by the country’s healthcare system in order to resolve the many challenges that have increasingly become a great hindrance to the delivery of positive health outcomes for the country.
Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, Premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane, MEC of Health in the Eastern Cape, Ntandokazi Capa, are some of the government leaders who are expected to attend this significant event for the nursing profession.
DENOSA, as the National Nursing Association in South Africa, represents the country at the International Council of Nurses (ICN), the international nursing body that represents the nursing voice at global decision-making bodies.
Each year, the event is held under a specific theme. The theme for this year is: OUR NURSES. OUR FUTURE. EMPOWERED NURSES SAVE LIVES. The theme focuses on the importance of empowering the full life-saving nursing workforce, and the essence of providing a safe working environment, fair compensation, as well as education and leadership opportunities.
SOME OF THE CHALLENGES NURSES FACE DAILY:
1. GREAT STRAIN AND SHORTAGE OF STAFF
Whilst nurses continue to sustain care, protect communities and hold health systems together, they do so often under immense strain to themselves. Yet their work is often not fully recognized and supported. This is the case in both the Eastern Cape and nationally, where there is severe shortage of staff and non-absorption of unemployed nurses.
2. WORKLOAD NOT TALLYING WITH COMPENSATION
The tremendous work that the nurses continue to pull off is often not tallying with the poor pay, as many nurses do the work of three of four other nurses who remain unemployed. This often leads to burn out and brain-drain as nurses are forced to look for greener pastures where working conditions are far better.
3. LACK OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
While making up the majority healthcare professionals, who are on the bedside with the patients 24 hours a day, nurses often get overlooked when it comes to education and leadership opportunities. Nurses understand the healthcare system far better and deserve leadership role. Many studies have recommended that, focusing on and addressing global nursing challenges will half the world’s healthcare challenges altogether.
4. LACK OF RECOGNITION AND SUPPORT
Nurses often do not get recognized for the sterling work of keeping the healthcare system together. Appreciation can take many forms, but these are glaringly non-existent in the healthcare settings, pointing to the need to appreciate their input.
The details of the event are as follows:
DATE: Tuesday, 12 May 2026.
TIME: 10h00
VENUE: Christian Church, KuGompo, Eastern Cape.
CONTACT FOR MEDIA RSVP: Sibongiseni Delihlazo
EMAIL: sibong...@denosa.org.za
MOBILE: 072 584 4175.
End.
Issued by the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA).
For more information or interview request, contact:
Sibongiseni Delihlazo, Communications Manager, on 072 584 4175.
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Media accreditation for COSATU May Day celebrations officially open
Zanele Sabela, COSATU Spokesperson, 08 April 2026
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has officially opened media accreditation applications for Workers’ Day celebrations on 1 May 2026. The Federation will continue with its tradition of hosting celebrations across the country, with the national rally to be held at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
The President of COSATU, Zingiswa Losi will deliver the keynote address, with messages of support from leaders of Alliance Partners: the African National Congress (ANC), South African Communist Party (SACP) and South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO).
COSATU National Office bearers will lead provincial commemorations, alongside leaders of affiliated trade unions and members of the Federation’s Central Executive Committee (CEC).
Applications to cover the national rally may be submitted to mam...@cosatu.org.za or non...@cosatu.org.za.
Alternatively, an application form can be completed via this link:
Media accreditation for COSATU May Day celebrations officially open – Fill out form
Applications to cover provincial rallies can be sent to the following contacts:
1. Western Cape- Mbekweni Sport Stadium (Paarl) at 10:00
Malvern de Bruyn 060 977 9027 or Cleopatra Kakaza 072 312 6822
2. Gauteng - Tsakane Stadium (Brakpan) at 10:00
Louisa Modikwe 082 297 2659 or Itumeleng Moloantoa 071 873 5238
3. Free State- Bultfontein Stadium (Bultfontein) at 10:00
Tiisetso Mahlatsi on 077 607 3012 or Mongezi Mbelwane on 072 308 7658
4. KwaZulu Natal Curries Fountain Stadium (Durban) at 10:00
Edwin Mkhize 082 339 7756 or Khaliphile Cotoza 082 339 5760
5. Mpumalanga- Kamagugu Stadium (Mbombela) at 10:00
Thabo Mokoena 082 799 5699 or James Mahlabane 064 753 9055
6. Northern Cape- Open Air Arena (Galeshewe) at 10:00
Thandi Makapela 079 481 9077
7. North West- Olympia Stadium (Rustenburg) at 10:00
Kabelo Kgoro 067 410 4696
8. Eastern Cape - Nangoa Jebe Hall – Gqeberha, Orient Theatre (kuGompo) – Buffalo City, Tobi Kula Indoor Sports Centre (Komani) and Lusikisiki College Great Hall at 10:00
Mkhawuleli Maleki 082 339 5482
Issued by COSATU
Zanele Sabela (COSATU Spokesperson)
Mobile: 079 287 5788 / 077 600 6639
Email: zan...@cosatu.org.za
South Africa #ClassSolidarity
COSATU urges its Alliance Partners to desist from any statements and actions that may weaken the Tripartite Alliance
Matthew Parks, COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator, 27 April 2026
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) urges its Alliance Partners to desist from any statements and actions that may weaken the Tripartite Alliance. The Federation has been extremely concerned by recent developments within the Alliance, including the convening of press conferences and the issuing of statements by Alliance Partners about each other.
We fear that such events only serve to weaken and not strengthen or unite the Alliance.
The Federation values the Alliance and the role each Alliance Partner has played in the liberation struggle and post-1994. This is an Alliance built over decades of struggle and under the most trying of circumstances. Its unity has been forged in the sacrifices of generations from the building of the nascent trade union movement from the 1910s and beyond, to the convening of the historic Congress of the People at Kliptown in 1955, from the prison cells of Robben Island to the camps of uMkhonto we Sizwe in Angola.
It has been epitomised by the heroic leadership of countless stalwarts, from Walter Sisulu to Joe Slovo, from Chris Hani to Ray Alexander, who were not only leaders of any single Alliance Partner, but in fact the entire liberation movement.
This Alliance not only led the liberation struggle that defeated the apartheid regime but also put in place our internationally respected constitutional democracy and has set South Africa firmly upon the transformation journey necessary to undo three and a half centuries of colonial and apartheid rule whose legacies continue to scar the nation.
With the working class battling a 41.1% unemployment rate, entrenched levels of poverty and inequality, and endemic crime and corruption; the need for the Alliance to continue to provide coherent and decisive leadership for society remains as relevant as ever.
COSATU has been deeply worried by tensions in the Alliance. If these are not resolved with the necessary political maturity and strategic foresight, we fear they may worsen and potentially threaten the very survival of the Alliance.
The working class does not find comfort when leaders of the Alliance air their grievances with each other in public, more so when society, in particular the poor, battle to survive the rising cost of living, retrenchments, deteriorating public and municipal services, painful levels of crime, amongst many other dire challenges.
COSATU, the largest federation of trade unions in the nation, shares a membership and a constituency with its Alliance Partners. If solutions to tensions within the Alliance are not found, we risk the danger of not only dividing the Federation and its membership, but the working class as a whole.
This would be a failure of leadership that the generations of Moses Kotane, Elijah Barayi and Nana Abrahams would not look kindly upon.
The Federation cherishes its relationship with the African National Congress, the leader of the liberation movement and government. The Federation equally cherishes its relationship with the South African Communist Party, the vanguard of the working class and the cauldron in which so many leaders of the Alliance have been nurtured.
COSATU’s September 2025 Central Committee mandated the Federation to engage each Alliance Partner to find ways to tackle the challenges the Alliance has faced, including the need to ensure its radical reconfiguration.
The Federation will be seeking the urgent convening of the Alliance Political Council so that these burning matters can be addressed in a manner that strengthens the Alliance, and that ensures it has a united programme of action as we head towards the most contested local government elections since the dawn of democracy.
This is a matter that COSATU will spare no effort or energy to resolve.
Issued by COSATU
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COSATU observes 32 years of democracy this Freedom Day
Nonzuzo Dlamini, COSATU Communication Officer, 27 April 2026
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) commemorates the country’s attainment of democracy 32 years ago. For the first time in our history, citizens of all races could make their voices heard at the polls, marking the end of a vile system of racial segregation and discrimination.
As history would have it, when South Africans stood in long queues for their turn to cast the vote, they hungered for change, not only of the political regime, but also of their socio-economic conditions. Although numerous gains have been achieved through the years, today many are suffocating under the pressure of the high cost of living.
Celebrating this day is compounded by both the appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who stood at the forefront of the liberation movement and an overarching frustration towards the lived reality of hardship.
It is a far-flung exercise to cheer while the struggle to make ends meet is an everyday, stressful exercise. The working class is under siege from exorbitant medical aid fees from a government service provider that was designed to cushion public servants’ expenses, which has now reared its capitalist head.
Decision makers sit in boardrooms concluding determinations opposite to the envisaged future of access to basics promised by the democratic emancipation.
They enforce unaffordable rates despite the outcry from vulnerable patrons working hard under economic burden. Bare necessities are unacceptably expensive, including electricity, water and paraffin while workers are drowning in debt.
As we have witnessed recently, in contrast to the scenes from the 27th of April 1994 of snaking queues, young people line up at premises of potential employers hoping to escape unemployment.
They often return home, forced into their circumstances because of a failed system unable to accommodate them. Commendable projects aimed at addressing the scourge are appreciated but are a drop in the ocean compared to the escalating unemployment figures sitting at 41.1% and youth unemployment exceeding 72%.
Capacitating initiatives meant to alleviate these devastating numbers could be possible if corruption is eliminated in all spheres. Taxpayers earned money lost through perversion could be utilised to accelerate skills development opportunities.
This Freedom Day COSATU calls for the humane approach to the meaning of freedom. The gains achieved through the decades should not be marred by difficulties inflicted by capitalist ambitions.
These difficulties are experienced in communities and in households.
True freedom must translate to an affordable standard of living for all.
Issued by COSATU
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COSATU Limpopo poised to host National May Day Rally
Hangwani Mashao, COSATU Limpopo Provincial Secretary, 24 April 2026
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in Limpopo is proud to host the 2026 National May Day rally.
The rally will take place at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane. Preparations for this crucial event in the workers’ calendar are underway, as workers will once again gather on this 140th anniversary of International Workers Day. This is also the 32nd year of South Africa’s democracy which will be celebrated on Freedom Day, 27 April.
This gathering of thousands of members of COSATU’s Affiliates promises to be a boon to the local traders of Polokwane and will assist in boosting the economy of the host city. This in turn will give COSATU the opportunity to create goodwill among the people of Polokwane and forge relations between itself and the community, while also ensuring the provision of much needed products and services to those who will be attending the rally.
The Federation’s Central Executive Committee members, led by COSATU President, Zingiswa Losi, and the national leaders of our Alliance partners will be present at the rally. Transport routes for COSATU members as well as the wider community will be shared via our platform as well as Alliance channels.
A press briefing to outline further details about the event will be held as follows:
Date: 29 April 2026
Venue: Old Peter Mokaba Stadium Conference Room
Time: 10am
All media are invited to attend and cover the briefing.
COSATU Limpopo calls on all workers to attend the National May Day rally in their numbers. It is crucial to do so as this day was not handed to workers on a silver platter but was a result of the gallant struggles of the generation that came before us.
Workers in South Africa and the world should hold dear the legacy that was bequeathed on us by our forebears, because May Day is the only day dedicated to workers and the working class.
Issued by COSATU Limpopo
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SADTU Free State Statement Post the Elective Provincial Conference
Mokholoane Moloi, SADTU Free State Provincial Secretary, 26 April 2026
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) in Free State held its successful 3rd Quadrennial Provincial Conference on 22 – 24 April 2026 in Parys, at Woodlands Country Lodge convened under the conference theme, “Mobilising the consciousness and uniting revolutionary professionals in strengthening foundational learning and functional skills, to advance inclusive and sustainable economic growth in pursuance of a socialist society,”.
The Conference was attended by 155 voting delegates, National Office Bearers led by the President, Cde Magope Maphila, and received messages of support from all Alliance Partners, ANC, SACP, COSATU and SANCO, SASCO, Student Chapter, Lesotho Association of Teachers (LAT), and SACE.
Written messages were received from PELRC, CCPFSP and Swedish Teachers’ Union, Sveriges Lärare in Luleå (formerly Lärarförbundet).
The Conference was convened in a significant year marked by the Union’s Provincial Conferences across all the 9 provinces, SADTU Special National Congress, COSATU National Congress, and the Local Government Elections, honoured in memory of the founding President of our Union, Cde Membathisi Shepherd Mdladlana, who passed in October 2024 and the founding General Secretary, Cde Randal Paul Zachariaden van den Heever in December 2024.
The delegates to the 3rd Quadrennial Provincial Conference, reaffirm and reassert the strategic direction and guiding vision of the Union as adopted at the 10th National Congress. As delegates we committed ourselves to advancing the Congress theme as a clarion call to deepen organisational unity for the transformation of education and dedicated ourselves to the development of an education system that is fully accessible, equal and qualitative, free of apartheid legacy and which is just expression of the will of the people, as enshrined in the Constitution of the country.
Over the three days the Conference deliberated on persistent challenges including infrastructure backlogs, overcrowded classrooms, unsafe learning environments, and the increasing commodification of education as clear expressions of an ongoing struggle.
We met in the 3rd Quadrennial Conference having noted that the province has declined in performance in the 2025 matric results. Despite the decline Free State remains the highest to have achieved 91% and ranked 1st nationally in the 2024 matric results.
As delegates to this 3rd Quadrennial Provincial Conference, we paid particular attention to gender-based violence that is on a rapid increase, crippling the province and country in general and the schooling sector.
The Conference also noted the growing number of qualified education graduates who remain unemployed while classrooms remain overcrowded, with teacher-to-learner ratios exceeding acceptable criteria.
We reaffirmed our commitment to servicing our members in the vulnerable education sub-sectors such as the TVET/CET lecturers, ECD practitioners, Education Support Personnel and Office Based Education Personnel. The Union advocates for the professionalization, formal employment, and improved compensation of Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners and welcomed their integration into the mainstream education system which needs to be urgently implemented.
The Conference noted the release of the Draft History Curriculum for Grades 4 to 12 for public comments as a progressive and timely intervention in strengthening the education system.
The union has long advocated for the decolonisation of education and the History curriculum.
For far too long, History in South Africa has been taught from a colonial, Eurocentric perspective while ignoring the Afrocentric perspective. We believe the Draft History Curriculum is a step towards addressing this imbalance.
As delegates we say no to exorbitant GEMS increases because GEMS has abandoned its mandate to provide affordable, solidarity-based healthcare, especially for lower and middle-income public servants
We reaffirm our support to a progressive Journal of South African Democratic Teachers Union (JSADTU) which has been officially accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) indexed under Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ).
Delegates to this 3rd Quadrennial Provincial Conference, reaffirmed the support to SADTU Student Chapter (SSC) as a recruitment wheel for young emerging educators in the institutions of higher learning.
As delegates we will continue to support and fully participate in progressive initiatives of the union, such as SADTU Television (social media platforms), SADTU SACCO and I AM A SCHOOL FAN CAMPAIGN.
To this effect the Conference reaffirmed and committed to fully implement the NGC resolution that compel all leaders to be members of SADTU SACCO, and ensure that the “I AM A SCHOOL FAN” campaign is launched and implemented in all branches as matter of urgency
The Conference also met as we face tough economic conditions for the country and its citizens. The cost of living is rapidly rising and many simply cannot guarantee a proper meal for their families.
The Conference called for the building of strong fronts to defend decolonized quality public education and intensify resistance against austerity measures and the erosion of the sector.
We reaffirmed our active support and participation in the "Go Public! Fund Education" campaign, a global initiative launched by Education International (EI) to address funding crises in public education. The Union uses this campaign to fight against budget cuts, neoliberal policies, and austerity measures that have led to overcrowded classrooms, deteriorating infrastructure, and increased teacher burnout.
We stand on the threshold of the most challenging period wherein SACP resolved to contest the upcoming local government elections independently.
As delegates we reiterate that amid alliance dynamics, SADTU must not be forced to choose sides rather must be able to influence policy direction, while safeguarding its autonomy and progressive ideological posture.
The Conference emphasised that the union does not engage the National Democratic Revolution (NDR) as a theoretical concept, but as a lived reality reflected in the daily conditions of South Africa’s public schooling system.
The Conference met in the month when we commemorate the cowardly murder of Chris Hani. Cde Hani was a disciplined, loyal and dedicated cadre of the movement whose life was cut short when he still had so much to give to this country.
As delegates to the 3rd Provincial Conference, we remain committed to internationalism, and we support the struggles for national self-determination and a multilateral approach to the management of global issues.
The Conference noted with grave concern that there is a rupture in geopolitics, where great powers operate with impunity, without restraint and with this dominance, weaker nations are subjugated to their will.
As delegates we reiterate our solidarity with the people of Palestine and support the isolation of businesses in the UN List that operate in the occupied territories in Palestine.
We advocate for the self-determination, freedom and independence of Western Sahara. We support the call by Cuba for the return of Guantanamo Bay and the lifting of the USA economic embargo against Cuba.
We condemn the USA attack on Venezuela and the abduction of President Maduro, as well as the restriction of South Africa from participating in the upcoming 2026 G20 Summit and G7 Summit.
We condemn the USA and Israel attack on Iran and the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Conference closed with great responsibility upon its shoulders, individually and collectively to deepen organisational unity for the transformation of education and dedicated to the development of an education system which is fully accessible, equal and qualitative, free of apartheid legacy and is the just expression of the will of the people, as enshrined in the Constitution of the country.
The Conference elected leaders as follows:
Provincial Chairperson: Gape Legopo
Deputy Chairperson: Phildah Ngesi
Provincial Secretary: Mokholoane Moloi
Deputy Secretary: Nthabiseng Phalole
Provincial Treasurer: Kennedy Khantwane
Education Convenor: Pheello Matlebe
Gender Convenor: Jeanet Khanye
Sport, arts and culture convener: Maseabata Leoka
Issued by Provincial Secretariat
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NSFAS on allowance payments at TVET colleges
23 Apr 2026
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) successfully disbursed allowances to 203 653 Technical and Vocational Training students to the value of R621 million as per its commitment on the 17th April 2026. This is part of NSFAS continued commitment to effective and efficient disbursements to ensure continuous teaching and learning at institutions of higher learning.
As part of NSFAS review and due diligence, 12 000 students were found to be non-qualifying for this allowance run as a result of data exchange inconsistencies between Colleges and NSFAS. NSFAS is supporting Colleges in resolving these inconsistencies and will determine if a supplementary payment run is required.
NSFAS is actively assisting all affected colleges in reviewing and correcting student records. Regional working sessions with college staff commenced yesterday, with priority given to resolving outstanding data issues. Upon receipt of verified and corrected data, we encourage institutions to expedite data correction to ensure eligible students are included in upcoming disbursements.
To prevent further disruptions, NSFAS has implemented enhanced support measures, including the deployment of specialist teams to colleges across the provinces to assist with resolving outstanding data issues.
We are strengthening collaboration with all institutions to ensure accurate and timely data submission, which is critical for efficient allowance disbursement and to prevent future delays. NSFAS remains committed to enabling uninterrupted teaching and learning and urges all colleges to prioritise data review and correction to ensure prompt payment to all eligible students.
NSFAS values the partnership with stakeholders and remains committed to the principles of transparency, accountability, and student-centered service delivery. We appreciate the cooperation and patience of all parties as we work towards a swift resolution.
For
further information, please contact:
Ishmael Mnisi
Cell: 063 683 7337
Issued by National Student Financial Aid Scheme
International-Solidarity
Concerns over trade union rights at Schindler operations in Türkiye
24 April, 2026
Serious concerns have emerged regarding respect for freedom of association and collective bargaining rights at Schindler Türkeli Elevator Industry Inc. in Türkiye, in the context of an ongoing union organizing process and collective bargaining negotiations.
According to reports from the trade union Türk Metal, several workers who played an active role in organizing have been dismissed in recent months, including experienced employees with long service. These dismissals have reportedly been justified on the grounds of downsizing, despite indications that recruitment has continued at the same time.
There are also allegations that workers have been subjected to pressure and intimidation aimed at discouraging union membership. Reports suggest that workers have been warned of possible negative consequences should they maintain their union affiliation.
These developments are of particular concern given that collective bargaining negotiations began in February 2026. A stable environment based on trust and good faith is essential to ensure that negotiations can proceed meaningfully and that workers are able to exercise their rights without fear.
International standards and corporate responsibilityare violated
If confirmed, such practices would be inconsistent with internationally recognized standards on freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, including those set out in International Labour Organization Conventions 87 and 98.
They would also raise concerns under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, which set out the responsibility of companies to respect fundamental labour rights and prevent adverse impacts in their operations.
Schindler has made public commitments in this area through its Code of Conduct, Human Rights Policy and participation in the UN Global Compact. The company has also identified freedom of association and collective bargaining as salient human rights risks in its own reporting, making the reported situation particularly concerning.
Unionsdemand action
In response to these developments, IndustriALL Global Union and industriAll European Trade Union have written to Schindler, calling on the company to ensure full respect for trade union rights at its operations in Türkiye and to guarantee that collective bargaining can take place in a constructive and good faith environment.
“A stable environment based on good faith is essential for meaningful negotiations. Any actions that undermine workers’ ability to freely organize and bargain collectively risk damaging not only the process, but the long-term sustainability of industrial relations,”
said Atle Høie, IndustriALL Global Union general secretary.
“The situation described raises serious concerns about the implementation of the company’s own commitments. Companies must ensure that their operations fully respect workers rights, collective bargaining rights and the right to organise. Any form of pressure or intimidation is an attack on trade union rights and we stand firmly against this,”
said Judith Kirton-Darling, industriAll European Trade Union general secretary.
The unions have requested clarification from the company on the situation and the measures being taken to ensure respect for workers’ rights. They have also reiterated their willingness to engage constructively with Schindler at all levels.
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Norman Mampane (Shopsteward Editor)
Congress of South African Trade Unions
110 Jorissen Cnr Simmonds Street, Braamfontein, 2017
P.O.Box 1019, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
Tel: +27 11 339-4911 Direct line: 010 219-1348