The University of the Witwatersrand released a statement relating to the strike action by National Health Education and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu) and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa).
Following the intensive salary negotiation process that started last year in July and towards the end of 2017, management and unions could not reach an agreement on salary increases for 2018.
Initially, the university was offering 6,8 per cent and eight per cent for employees on grades 16 and 17. Senior management is to receive six per cent. This is the best the university can make to ensure financial sustainability and this offer is the second highest offer in the university sector.
Nehawu members have been on strike since 23 January and they were joined by Numsa members two days later. The university will implement contingency plans to ensure that university activities are not disrupted. Fortunately, most enrolment and registration processes can be completed online.
Meanwhile, the unions continue to negotiate a wage increase with the university.
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