About us – EBMTC

Our Story

In 1993, the National Union of Mineworkers National congress adopted a resolution to establish a Training Centre which was named after Elijah Barayi, a stalwart in the struggle for democratic rights in South Africa.

The Centre is a non-profit organisation and operates as a vehicle for training and development of shop stewardship and leadership.

Over the years, the Centre has developed and delivered more than 6,000 certified courses, benefitting over 500 graduates annually. The Centre’s comprehensive offerings include skills programs, accredited courses, and technical training. These programs are designed to equip union members with essential knowledge and skills to navigate the challenges of the modern workplace, particularly within the mining sector.

His life and work remain a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring fight for justice and equality.

Who is Elijah Barayi?

Elijah Barayi was a prominent figure in South Africa’s struggle for democratic rights and labour equality. Born in 1930, Barayi’s commitment to justice and workers’ rights saw him rise to become a significant leader within the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM).

Barayi’s leadership was instrumental during a critical period in South African history. As the first President of NUM, he played a crucial role in organising mineworkers and advocating for better working conditions and fair wages. His efforts were pivotal in strengthening the labour movement in South Africa, which in turn contributed to the broader fight against apartheid.

One of Barayi’s notable contributions was his involvement in the formation of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in 1985. COSATU became a powerful force in the anti-apartheid movement, uniting various trade unions in the struggle for political and economic freedom. Barayi’s dedication to the cause of workers’ rights and his leadership in the labour movement earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Elijah Barayi’s legacy continues to inspire many within the labour movement and beyond. The Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre, named in his honour, carries forward his vision by providing education and training to empower workers and promote leadership within the mining sector and other industries.

Our Mission

To Facilitate and Manage State-of-the-art Centres of Learning and to provide approved and Accredited Training Programmes to the Labour movement and communities

Our Vision

To Empower the working class to reach their full potential through Quality Education and Skills Development Programs.

Our Values

At the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre, our core values—Excellence, Integrity, Honesty, Respect, Accountability, Quality, and Professionalism.