The South African Parastatal & Tertiary Institutions Union (SAPTU) wants President Cyril Ramaphosa to pay critical attention to the improvement and support of sustainable investment in South Africa during his special address to Parliament on Thursday.
President Ramaphosa will address a hybrid Joint Sitting of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) to outline South Africa’s economic reconstruction and recovery plan.
“A stable and efficiently supported agricultural sector is crucial for sustainable investment,” says adv Ben van der Walt, the general secretary of SAPTU. “During the strictest period of the lockdown, the government identified agriculture as an essential service. It is not only important for food production but also job creation and the greater economy of the country.”
The sustainable investment will lead to better employment opportunities, as well as national, regional and broader international possibilities in terms of development.
SAPTU wants to hear the president announce increased black ownership to young and determined new farmers by offering them the title deeds to the land they work, instead of disempowering them with lengthy lease-holds.
SAPTU furthermore wants an emphasis on skills development in all sectors as well as investment in further higher education to improve the levels of knowledge and skills transfer.
In the state sector, SAPTU wants the president to make mention of feasible salary adjustments for government services.
“Our prime concern remains our members and their jobs, work environment and the conditions of service,” says adv Van der Walt. “A stable and robust economy protects employment in the country.”
Issued by: SAPTU
Date: 13 October 2020
Enquiries: Adv Ben van der Walt, General Secretary SAPTU Email: info@saptu.co.za
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