The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) is a cornerstone institution in South Africa, dedicated to advancing labor peace, economic development, and social justice. Established under the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act No. 66 of 1995), the CCMA plays a pivotal role in resolving workplace disputes and ensuring fair labor practices in accordance with Section 23 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996).
- How do I lodge a complaint to CCMA?
- What is the aim of the CCMA?
- What cases does CCMA handle?
- Can I win a case at CCMA without a lawyer?
- What are the five fair reasons for dismissal?
- How long does the CCMA process take?
- Who is an arbitrator?
- Who does CCMA help?
The CCMA is an independent statutory body that operates as a neutral entity. It is not affiliated with any political party, trade union, or business, which ensures impartiality in its processes.
The institution’s primary mission is to promote fair labor practices by resolving disputes between employers and employees, ultimately contributing to workplace democracy.
Functions of the CCMA
Mandatory Functions
In line with Section 115(1) of the Labour Relations Act, the CCMA is responsible for:
- Conciliating workplace disputes: Helping parties reach amicable resolutions.
- Arbitrating unresolved disputes: Deciding on disputes after conciliation efforts fail.
- Establishing picketing rules: Managing regulations during protected strikes and lockouts.
- Facilitating workplace forums: Encouraging collaboration between employees and management.
- Publishing data and statistics: Providing transparency in operations.
- Accrediting bargaining councils: Ensuring these entities meet specific standards.
- Administering the Essential Services Committee: Overseeing disputes in essential service sectors.
- Reviewing CCMA rules: Updating guidelines to remain effective and relevant.
Discretionary Functions
The CCMA may also:
- Supervise union and employer ballots.
- Provide training: Focused on employment law, workplace restructuring, and dispute prevention.
- Advise on dispute procedures: Offering guidance to individuals involved in disputes.
- Resolve disputes outside formal referrals.
- Publish research and guidelines: Enhancing understanding of labor relations.
- Assist employees earning below the BCEA threshold.
- Set and regulate fees for certain services.
How Does the CCMA Work?
If you’re an employee or employer facing a workplace dispute, here’s a simplified overview of the process:
- Dispute Referral: Submit a completed referral form (available on the CCMA website) to your nearest CCMA office.
- Conciliation: An attempt is made to resolve the dispute amicably.
- Arbitration: If conciliation fails, the case proceeds to arbitration for a binding decision.
- Outcome: Decisions are made based on labor law and the specifics of the case.
Contact the CCMA
If you need assistance or wish to contact the CCMA, here are the key details:
National Office
- Email: info@ccma.org.za
- Phone: 0861 161616
- Address: 28 Harrison Street, Johannesburg 2001
- GPS Coordinates: -26.2050348, 28.0441772
Johannesburg Office
- Email: johannesburg@ccma.org.za
- Phone: 011-220-5000
- Address: CCMA House, 127 Fox Street (Cnr. Eloff), Johannesburg, 2001
- Call Centre: 011-220-5080
- Private Bag: X96, Marshalltown, 2107
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.