The entity’s offer of a 0% salary increase for the 2024/25 financial year had been rejected by the education and health workers’ union, Nehawu. FSGLTA spokesperson Tshediso Lerumo, however, dismissed criticism that the authority was unwilling to negotiate with workers in good faith.

The offer is the result of severe financial constraints, he said. The authority’s “inadequate” budget allocation had not increased over the past three financial years, while the medium-term expenditure framework for 2025/26 to 2028/29 also remained unchanged.

FSGLTA workers affiliated with Nehawu continue to protest. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Lerumo confirmed the entity has formally been notified of Nehawu’s intention to launch a protected strike after the CCMA issued a certificate of non-conciliation on 14 October. A seven-day notice followed, setting the stage for industrial action commencing Monday (24/11).

Workers also accused the FSGLTA leadership of fostering “a culture of favouritism and making irregular acting appointments”.

Nehawu FSGLTA Bloemfontein branch deputy secretary Kefiloe Masolane had been outspoken about what she described as “the deteriorating state” of the institution. Mismanagement had not only demoralised staff but also contributed to financial inefficiencies, she claimed.

The appointment of friends as external consultants had inflated the authority’s budget, while board members continue to enjoy “unnecessary” travel for board meetings, all while employees struggle financially, she said.

However, Lerumo emphasised the entity supports accountability and transparency. He encouraged all stakeholders to use formal channels to report wrongdoing.

“The FSGLTA further highlights that it has begun an organisational review process, which includes job grading, supported by our mother department, Destea. This process seeks to align the organisational structure and objectives to the current budget realities."

“Additional matters raised by union representatives will be dealt with through the ongoing organisational review and change management processes.”

The FSGLTA’s management remained committed to exploring “all possible avenues” to resolve the matter amicably and minimise disruptions to service delivery, he added.

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 OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh