The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) wishes its union federation, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) a successful 15th National Congress to take place at Gallagher Estate from 14-17 September 2026.

This Congress takes place at a critical moment for the working class and the poor in our country. Workers continue to face unemployment, rising living costs, poverty and inequality, job insecurity, austerity and the continued erosion of their living standards.

The theme of this Congress, “Building a militant, revolutionary movement and strengthening anti-imperialist working-class unity to defend jobs and advance socialism,” is therefore both timely and necessary.

The working class needs a strong, united and militant trade union movement capable of
confronting exploitation, defending decent jobs and protecting the gains of our liberation
struggle. We must reject austerity and any attempts to place the burden of economic
challenges on workers and the poor.

COSATU has historically played a critical role in advancing the interests of workers and
remains an important pillar of the working-class struggle. SADTU is proud to stand alongside the Federation and all its affiliates in defending workers’ rights and fighting for a more just and equal society.

Our organisations were forged in the trenches of the struggle for liberation. That bond remains strong. We therefore recommit ourselves to strengthening COSATU, building
working-class unity and advancing campaigns that place the interests of workers and the poor at the centre of our national agenda.

We wish COSATU a successful and productive 15th National Congress. We are confident that the Congress will emerge with renewed organisational strength, greater unity and a clear programme of militant action.

ISSUED BY: SADTU Secretariat

CONTACT: General Secretary, Dr Mugwena Maluleke: 082 783 2968

Deputy General Secretary, Nkosana Dolopi: 082 709 5651

Media Officer, Nomusa Cembi: 082 719 5157