NEHAWU statement on plans for the reopening of post school education and training institutions
19 January 2021
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU) notes the media briefing by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Blade Nzimande on the reopening of the institutions of higher learning. However, we wish to express our disappointment on the approach of the Minister which completely lacks consultation with us on matters affecting the lives of our members and workers in general hence we reiterate our position that there is nothing about us without us.
The lack of consultation undermines the essence of our existence in the sector and discourages the maintenance of labour peace in these institutions. Indeed, lack of consultation shall make it difficult for us to cooperate with the imposed directives that have a bearing or direct impact with our working environment and conditions without being involved hence we are contemplating to invoke the Labour Relations Act as amended and COVID-19 relevant regulations as we shall not be fighting for our recognition after more than 25 years of our democracy.
On NSFAS and access to higher education
The national union notes the letter by DHET directing the University of South Africa (UNISA) to reduce its intake of students and the delay on the resumption of the academic year. NEHAWU is convinced that the University of South African has been at the center of providing access to the majority of the working class and African students from previously disadvantaged background. With that in mind, the union wants to advice the Minister to reconsider his position and allow UNISA to register all students who have applied for admission on time. This will help to lessen the pressure on the other 25 universities who continue to exclude our people in numbers.