Workers at the Nelson Mandela University have downed tools on Monday following a wage dispute with their employer.
The striking workers, affiliated with the National Education, Health, and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu) gathered outside the University's main building with posters and sang struggle songs.
Nehawu branch secretary Mzoxolo Tame said they're seeking an 8% wage increase while noting that NMU had unilaterally implemented a 6.9% increase.
He also added that they want the institution to increase the housing allowance from R1100 to R1500.
Regarding medical aid contributions, the strikers are demanding that their employer contribute 60% towards medical aid while workers contribute 40%.
"We will continue striking until the University has an appetite to listen and meet our demands," said Tame.
University spokesperson Primarashni Gower said the institution was engaging with Nehawu, in a bid to end the illegal strike action.
"In addition, the University is seeking an interdict from the Labour Court to prohibit such actions from taking place going forward," says Gower.
The Nehawu strike followed four days of picketing by student organisations last week.
NMU has successfully obtained an interdict against the student organisations, which prohibits them from protesting and strike action on campus grounds.
