Career guide

Trade Union Official

Social

Represents workers - negotiating wages and conditions, handling grievances and disciplinary cases, and organising members. Requires nerve and good grasp of labour law.

School subjects

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is accepted; History and Business Studies help.

How you qualify

There is no single required qualification. Many officials are elected from the shop floor and trained by their union; formal routes include a degree or diploma in Labour Relations, Human Resources or Law (NQF 6-7). Knowledge of the Labour Relations Act matters most. Confirm current requirements with your counsellor.

Where to study

Universities and Universities of Technology; union-run training; no compulsory registration

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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