Sadtu joins Cosatu's national day of action for decent work

The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) will join pickets and marches across all nine provinces on Tuesday as part of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu)’s National Day of Action marking the International Day for Decent Work.

The day, observed globally on October 7, calls for “democracy that delivers decent work,” and for an end to the corporate capture of public policy. It also reaffirms labour’s commitment to peace, justice and equality.

SADTU said its participation highlights the need for better working conditions in South Africa, where austerity measures and job cuts continue to threaten livelihoods.

Among the key issues the union will raise are:

• An end to austerity and the privatisation of education, which it says undermines workers’ rights and public education quality;

• The filling of vacant posts in schools to reduce overcrowding and teacher workload;

• More mental health support for education workers; and

• Improved safety and security at learning institutions.

“SADTU stands firmly in solidarity with all workers in their struggle for decent work, dignity and social justice,” the union said in a statement.