ATTENTION: News editors
Media Advisory
Wednesday, 28 May 2025
The Minister of Employment and Labour, Ms. Nomakhosazana Meth in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg (UJ) will on Thursday, 29 May 2025, host the Second Elijah Barayi Memorial Lecture, in honour of one of South Africa’s most influential labour leaders.
The Elijah Barayi Memorial Lecture, will be delivered by Minister Gwede Mantashe, the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. A former trade union leader, Minister Mantashe, will reflect on Barayi’s enduring impact, alongside high-profile attendees, including Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, Gauteng Premier, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi and the Mayor of Johannesburg, Mr. Dada Morero.
The inaugural Elijah Barayi Memorial Lecture, held in May 2024, featured a keynote by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who paid tribute to Barayi’s leadership and contribution to the fight for workers’ rights. The event was widely praised for drawing connections between Barayi’s historical role in mass labour mobilisation and the ongoing struggle for decent work and economic justice.
As a voice against apartheid and a fighter for worker rights in South Africa, Barayi’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of activists.
The media are invited to attend the event as follows
Date: Thursday, 29 May 2025
Time: 10:00 – 12:00 (Registration opens at 09:00; guests must be seated by 09:45)
Venue: Ubuntu Chambers, Madibeng Building, 3rd Floor, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus
Keynote Speaker: Minister Gwede Mantashe
RSVP: Attendance is free; however, RSVP is required. ID/Passport must be presented for access.
Livestream: This is a hybrid event; a livestreaming link will be provided upon request.
Note to the media: Space is limited, therefore RSVPs are essential. Please RSVP to Masego Panyane on masegop@uj.ac.za or contact her on 084 067 7528 no later than midday, 28 May 2025.
ENDS
Media enquiries: Ms. Thobeka Magcai, Ministry Spokesperson. Email: Thobeka.Magcai@labour.gov.za | Mobile: 072 737 2205.
Or
Mr. Teboho Thejane, Departmental Spokesperson. Email: teboho.thejane@labour.gov.za 082 697 0694
Issued by:
Masego Panyane
Media Liaison
University of Johannesburg
Tel: +27 11 559-1571
Cell: + 27 84 067 7528
