SAE3701
Assignment 03
Due Date: 2 July 2025
, ✅ SAE3701 ASSIGNMENT 03
Due Date: 2 July 2025
Unique Number: 185362
Title: The Role of Teacher Unions in South Africa: Advocacy, Strikes, and Educational
Impact.
Introduction
In post-apartheid South Africa, teacher unions have become central stakeholders in the
education system. Historically rooted in anti-apartheid activism, these unions—
particularly the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU)—have evolved into
institutionalised bodies influencing educational reform, labour negotiations, and
curriculum policies. However, the rise in industrial actions such as strikes has sparked
debate over the true impact of unions on teaching quality, learner outcomes, and
governance. This essay critically examines the multifaceted role of teacher unions in
democratic South Africa, using recent strikes as case studies. It evaluates the causes of
teacher strikes, the positive contributions of unions, and the negative consequences of
their activism within the education sector.
Causes of Teacher Strikes in South Africa
Teacher strikes are rarely spontaneous; they are often rooted in deeper systemic issues
affecting the profession:
1. Poor Remuneration and Working Conditions
One of the key triggers of strikes is dissatisfaction with salaries and benefits.
Teachers argue that their pay does not reflect the intensity of their work or
account for inflation and rising living costs. Many teachers work in overcrowded
classrooms with inadequate resources, leading to exhaustion and low morale
(Chisholm, 2012).
2. Lack of Infrastructure and Safety
In many public schools, especially those in rural areas, poor infrastructure and
Assignment 03
Due Date: 2 July 2025
, ✅ SAE3701 ASSIGNMENT 03
Due Date: 2 July 2025
Unique Number: 185362
Title: The Role of Teacher Unions in South Africa: Advocacy, Strikes, and Educational
Impact.
Introduction
In post-apartheid South Africa, teacher unions have become central stakeholders in the
education system. Historically rooted in anti-apartheid activism, these unions—
particularly the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU)—have evolved into
institutionalised bodies influencing educational reform, labour negotiations, and
curriculum policies. However, the rise in industrial actions such as strikes has sparked
debate over the true impact of unions on teaching quality, learner outcomes, and
governance. This essay critically examines the multifaceted role of teacher unions in
democratic South Africa, using recent strikes as case studies. It evaluates the causes of
teacher strikes, the positive contributions of unions, and the negative consequences of
their activism within the education sector.
Causes of Teacher Strikes in South Africa
Teacher strikes are rarely spontaneous; they are often rooted in deeper systemic issues
affecting the profession:
1. Poor Remuneration and Working Conditions
One of the key triggers of strikes is dissatisfaction with salaries and benefits.
Teachers argue that their pay does not reflect the intensity of their work or
account for inflation and rising living costs. Many teachers work in overcrowded
classrooms with inadequate resources, leading to exhaustion and low morale
(Chisholm, 2012).
2. Lack of Infrastructure and Safety
In many public schools, especially those in rural areas, poor infrastructure and
