Dear valued Member,
As we approach the end of another year, we take a moment to reflect on our collective achievements, the challenges we've faced, and the road ahead. This year, as in every year, the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) has remained steadfast in its commitment to improving the conditions and rights of those in tertiary education across the country. But beyond the daily battles for fair wages, job security, and academic freedom, we recognize that the work we do is part of a much larger, long-term struggle for equality, justice, and unity.
Workplace discrimination, whether on the basis of gender, race, or disability, remains a major concern. In a series of high-profile cases, the union successfully defended members against unjust disciplinary actions and unfair dismissals, securing reinstatements and compensation for wrongful terminations. These outcomes underscore our ongoing commitment to ensuring due process and fairness for all workers in the tertiary education sector.
Throughout 2024, NTEU maintained a strong public profile, amplifying our voice through media campaigns, demonstrations, public forums, branch engagements and community outreaches. These efforts not only brought attention to the issues facing our members, but also strengthened NTEU’s reputation as a key advocate for fair treatment and transparency in the sector. NTEU has been active in lobbying government on issues central to the well-being of our members and the broader tertiary fraternity. Together with the Department of Higher Education, Science and Technology NTEU confronted the sometimes violent corruption pillaging our universities and will continue to work with the department towards restoring our halls of learning.
I not only had the privilege of serving another year as your elected president, but had a first-hand experience of the NTEU service. It is this experience that has underscored to me what is truly important and how much the world still needs unions. It reminded me why they remain an absolute need in the workplace. Despite what you may have heard a well-organized, principled and transparent union is still quite relevant - critical even. I thank the union for their professional service, their skilful guidance and for successfully defending me against my dismissal, seeing that I am to be unconditionally reinstated at the University of Fort Hare. I found myself at a vantage point of appreciation that I now share with so many others. Today, those members and I enjoy peace of mind due to the reassurance that NTEU will be there.
The spirit of the union was kept alive by reports of how NTEU has impacted our members and institutions around the country. NTEU’s representation extended to the boundaries of South Africa through our leaders at the University of Venda and barely a month passed by without reports of how the Vaal University of Technology branch have impacted campuses and communities in some significant way.
At Stellenbosch University we secured commitments to improve access to mental health resources for staff and have been working with management for systemic change to ensure their mental well-being.
At Nelson Mandela University we have enjoyed the benefits of the newly launched NTEU Youth Desk. A platform specifically designed to empower a Gen Z workforce and give them a voice.
We welcomed our newest branch at the University of Pretoria into the fold and have been highly motivated having identified the extreme need for a union like NTEU at this institution.
Our STADIO branch has always presented a complex union environment due to its corporate culture, but leadership has been impressed with the BEC’s ability to adapt to their unique challenges and more importantly their teamwork.
Our branch at the Durban University of Technology have faced the extreme challenges to their job security with exemplary fortitude, working with the National Office to secure jobs not only for members, but for all staff at the university.
At the University of Fort Hare NTEU remained the last line of defence against the roots of corruption spreading even further and deeper around the historic university.
University of Mpumalanga leadership reminded us to be “boldly NTEU” with their dedicated days on which members exhibited their union regalia without fear, serving as a visible reminder to management that we are here and we are united.
NTEU continued to be a voice of reason at the University of Kwazulu-Natal, building bridges for the betterment of the university as a whole and continued to serve as the unified voice of those at the renowned Rhodes University.
At the Cape Peninsula University of Technology NTEU proved critical for transparency and job security, as it did at the Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein.
Reports of victories, advancements and trail blazing from across the face of this national union have been received from branches like UL, TUT, WSU, UJ and more.
For all of your steadfast support and the diligent efforts of your elected leadership, we thank you. It is from our unity that we draw strength. It is by a vote of your confidence that we are emboldened. And it is behind your mandate that the leadership of this union advances forward.
However, we also experienced loss through the sudden passing of beloved Rhodes University shopsteward, Ryno Van Rooyen. A painful reminder that in some areas there is no negotiation. However, again I saw the NTEU community pull closer together, amidst their grief. I saw strength being lent to those who could not help but feel weak under the weight of their loss. Ryno’s contribution to the successes of this union cannot be contested and serves as yet another reminder of why I am so proud to be associated with this union.
The union is also optimistic for the future due to the implementation of regional structures - anticipated to streamline operations, activities and support to members. As university staff and union members your participation in the union has never been more important. The gains we make in the coming year will depend on your continued engagement, your advocacy, and your resolve. I and the rest of the leadership are proud to be your representatives, and we know that, together, we will continue to move toward a fairer, more just higher education sector.
As we near the close of the year, I want to thank each and every one of you for your hard work, your determination, and your belief in the collective power of this union. I wish you all a restful and enjoyable festive season and look forward to another year of progress, action, and solidarity!
Go well,
Hambani kakuhle,
Voorspoed,
Xolani Tom
NTEU National President