In a landmark move symbolising unity and progress, the University of Venda has successfully concluded wage negotiations with the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU) – University of Venda Branch. The culmination of months of collaborative engagement was formalised through the signing of a Wage Collective Agreement at the Disability Unit Laboratory on 8 April 2025.
L-R: Mrs Uanda Ndou, Director: Human Resources, Adv Rudzani Makhema, Head Employee Relations, Mr Botwe Kraziya, Chief Operating Officer, and Mr Ambros Mogashoa, Secretary of NEHAWU Branch
This agreement marks a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to maintain a fair, competitive, and supportive working environment, despite the challenging financial landscape currently facing higher education institutions.
The Department of Higher Education and Training has recently reduced the university’s block grant by sixty-two million South African Rand, a development that necessitated a thorough and strategic review of institutional priorities before reaching an agreement.
University of Venda Bargaining Team
Following three months of intensive dialogue and negotiation, both the Universi-ty of Venda and NEHAWU arrived at an agreement that acknowledges the essential role staff members play in the success of the institution. The result is a five percent sala-ry increase for employees on salary bands P6 through P17, effective from 1 April 2025. “We are pleased to have reached this agreement in a spirit of mutual respect and shared commitment. Our staff is our most valuable asset, and this agreement re-inforces our dedication to recognising their hard work, even in the face of finan-cial constraints,” said the University of Venda Chief Operating Officer, Mr Botwe Kraziya.
The university commended NEHAWU for its constructive approach and pro-fessional conduct throughout the process. This collaboration highlights the strength of dialogue and partnership in building a resilient academic institution.
The agreement is effective immediately, setting the stage for a renewed era of coop-eration between the university’s management and its workforce. With the foundation now laid for improved staff welfare and strengthened institutional stability, the Universi-ty of Venda looks forward to a future defined by unity, excellence, and shared success.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
