NO settlement has been reached between the unions and management at the Durban University of Technology (DUT).
A mandated three days mediation process, presided over by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), which started on Wednesday last week, has failed to produce any results. Negotiations are now expected to resume on Wednesday under the guidance of the (CCMA).
Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Thandwa Mthembu, said it was a great disappointment and sadness that the CCMA mediated process had not produced a settlement.
“The emboldened part of the agreed framework requires that the Deputy Minister Buti Manamela and the principals monitor the progress; and, I would add, provide a way forward in the negotiation process.”
” Thus, even though no settlement has been reached within the 3-day period, that should not undermine the role the Deputy Minister and the principals should continue to play.”
“The process of engaging with the principals has now started and will certainly occupy them during this weekend. I believe the DM has to be given an opportunity not only to get separate briefings from each of the principals, but, to engage with all of them (Nehawu and Fedusa at national levels and Exco of Council) separately and together, perhaps,” said Mthembu.
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Meanwhile, it has been alleged that the three striking unions will be taking the University to court over salary docking.
Mthembu said in the interests of students, their parents, guardians and sponsors, and in the interests of the reputation as a University (with a history of strikes), he appealed to all staff to respect the suspension of the strike and accept the suspension of the lockout that DUT principals agreed on until they determine otherwise.
“I appeal to all lecturers and professors to return to lecture halls for the sake of the bright future that lies ahead for our students. I appeal to all students to focus on this surely bright future by ensuring that they present themselves for lectures. DUT has had its own unique challenges all these years; some of which persist whilst others do get resolved incrementally. There is no reason to make the challenges we now face something that should scupper this quarter and semester; with such dire prospects for the University,” Mthembu added.
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