Further to the information provided in that circular, I would also like to inform you that the agreement with UPWO, in addition to the provisions pertaining to salary adjustments, also covers the following matters.

The University will fully subsidise the costs of an additional fringe benefit in the form of a funeral scheme for qualifying members of UPWO and their dependants, with a benefit of at least R18 000 per individual who enjoys cover. Permanent staff will qualify for the benefit, with the proviso that only one spouse will qualify where both spouses are permanent members of staff of the University. Apart from the member, spouses and dependant natural children under the age of 25 (including stillbirths) will be covered by the scheme. Diminished benefits may be applicable to children under 14 years of age and stillbirths.

This benefit will be implemented with effect from the first day of the month following the signing of the relevant agreement with the approved underwriters of the scheme. The finalisation of the scheme is subject to compliance with the University’s procurement and tender policies and other applicable policy provisions, and the final choice of the service provider rests in the discretion of the University.

This additional fringe benefit will, like the salary adjustments, also apply to all qualifying staff members who are not members of a union, or who are members of a union with whom the University does not have a formal recognition agreement,

Secondly it was agreed that the initiatives emanating from the recommendations of the external consultant who conducted the salary benchmarking and the performance management review in collaboration with the recognised unions during 2010, would be proceeded with as soon as possible in accordance with agreed implementation plans.

Kind regards

Prof Antonie de Klerk
Executive Director