CUT management and Nehawu leaders who formed part of the negotiating team. Back row from left: Dr Joe Molete, Welkom Campus Principal, Mr Sabata Kambule, Union representative, Mr Llale Setumo, Executive Director: Resources and Operations, Mr Mili Nemutshili, Chief Financial Officer, Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa, acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Innovation and Engagement, Ms Razina Jacobs, Senior Director: Human Resources and Mr Mohau Manyarela, Union representative.

Front row: Dr Choice Makhetha, Executive Director in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Mr Master Masoeu NEHAWU, Chairperson, Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, and Mr Molise Moremi, Union representative.

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), has concluded the remuneration agreement with the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU), marking the successful end of a challenging yet collaborative negotiation process. The agreement, signed on 05 June 2025, is a significant milestone in CUT’s continued commitment to fairness, equity, and mutual respect between management and staff.

Negotiations began on 17 February 2025, with both management and NEHAWU entering into discussions in good faith. What followed were months of dedicated and at times difficult engagements, driven by a shared commitment to CUT’s people and values.

Speaking at the official signing, Mr Llale Setumo, Executive Director: Resources and Operations emphasised the profound nature of the process.

“Today is not just the end of a negotiation process, it is the culmination of a journey where both parties, management and labour met with purpose and integrity. These were not just meetings of minds, but meetings of values, respect, accountability, fairness, and a shared commitment to CUT,” he said.

Mr Llale acknowledged the intensity of some of the discussions, stating that the strength of the institution lies not in avoiding disagreement, but in navigating differences with integrity, patience, and purpose. He extended appreciation to the NEHAWU leadership, noting that while the journey was not easy, the shared goal of putting people first while balancing institutional interests was achieved.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Pamela Dube, lauded the process and the collaborative spirit in which it was conducted.

“The success of the 2025 remuneration process was made possible under the guidance of Mr Sefako Mafoyane, who served as the facilitator. The spirit of fairness that underpinned these negotiations has enabled us to conclude with a collective agreement that reflects our values and priorities.

Despite the broader sector’s challenging financial climate and reduced subsidies, CUT remains unwavering in its commitment to equitable remuneration. Our negotiated packages are not only comparable and affordable but also designed to mitigate the effects of inflation and the costs of living for many of us,” she said.

Prof. Dube emphasised that the conclusion of this agreement demonstrates CUT’s commitment to healthy stakeholder relations and resolution through engagement. “The value we attach to our stakeholders ultimately shapes how we are perceived by the broader community.”

Mr Master Masoeu NEHAWU, Chairperson, acknowledged the complex dynamics that framed the negotiations. “It is never easy to negotiate within a mandate, particularly against the backdrop of an ailing economy. However, our goal remained clear- to represent the voices and concerns of our members, even as we understood the financial and economic realities facing both the university and employees. I thank everyone who participated in the process. It is always a challenge to return to your constituency and explain difficult decisions, but this agreement reflects a sincere attempt to meet each other halfway and prioritise the needs of our people,” he said.

Uploaded: 06 June 2025