GOVERNMENT will continue strengthening existing mechanisms for social dialogue such as the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council (TCLC), says Labour and Social Security Minister Brenda Tambatamba.
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Ms Tambatamba noted that this is in an effort to promote cordial relations between trade unions and employers, adding that the government remains committed to implementing the tripartite mechanisms provided for in the Industrial and Labour Relations Act.
She said this in a speech read by the Director of the Department of National Productivity Development, Mr Cyprian Mayamba, during the official opening of the first quadrennial conference for Chalimbana University Lecturers Union (CHAULU) in Chongwe.
She added that the government notes the role played by trade unions in promoting good working conditions, industrial harmony and unity.
Ms. Tambtamba commended CHAULU for holding the conference, adding that the event is a demonstration of the union’s ability to unite and fight for the common good of the university.
Ms. Tambtamba also emphasised the need for unions to focus on promoting the improvement of productivity within their membership.
“Among the things unions should be cooperating on with management should be the growth and sustainability of their institutions which is the essence of productivity,” Ms. Tambtamba said.
She said the government through her ministry stands ready to provide all the necessary support towards trade unions to inculcate a productive mindset in the country’s labour force.
She however reiterated the need for the union to fulfil its mandate of providing worker education to their members by educating them on issues such as their rights at the workplace, terms and conditions of service as well as disciplinary matters.
Meanwhile, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) Deputy General Secretary Catherine Choba commended lecturers at Chalimbana University for forming a union despite the interim committee facing a number of challenges over the years.
Ms. Choba implored the union to always remain committed in advancing the plight of lectures at the university by not giving in to any form of intimidation.
“Management of Chalimbana University should know that the team elected today is a legal structure of this university and they must be allowed to operate within the provisions of the law.
She called on both the university management and the union leadership to work together to create a conducive working environment.
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