For over three decades, we’ve stood as a cornerstone of empowerment for the South African labour movement, fostering a legacy of knowledge and advocacy. Our non-profit organization was proudly named in honour of the tireless struggle stalwart, Elijah Barayi, a true giant in the fight for justice and equality. We are wholeheartedly dedicated to cultivating skilled shop stewards and visionary labour leaders, equipping them to navigate the complexities of the modern world, champion the rights of the working class, and drive meaningful change across industries.
Our journey began in 1993,
when the National Union of Mineworkers
(NUM) National Congress adopted
a visionary resolution
to establish a dedicated Training Centre.
Years of Experience
This centre was fittingly named after Elijah Barayi, recognizing his profound contributions to the struggle for democratic rights in South Africa. Since our inception, the Centre has operated as a vital non-profit organization, serving as a dedicated vehicle for the training and development of shop stewardship and leadership. Over the years, our commitment to excellence has yielded significant results. We’ve meticulously developed and delivered more than 6,000 certified courses, directly benefitting over 500 graduates annually.
Our comprehensive offerings span vital areas, including skills programs, accredited courses, and technical training. These programs are meticulously designed to equip union members with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate the challenges of the modern workplace, with a particular focus on the critical mining sector. We are steadfast in our mission to empower workers to reach their full potential through quality education and skills development.
Champion
Elijah Barayi (born in 1930) was a prominent and influential figure in South Africa's profound struggle for democratic rights and labour equality. His deep-rooted commitment to justice and workers' rights propelled him to become a significant leader within the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM).
Barayi’s leadership was absolutely instrumental during a critical period in South African history. As the very first President of NUM, he played an indispensable role in organizing mineworkers and vociferously advocating for better working conditions and fair wages. His tireless efforts were pivotal in fundamentally strengthening the labour movement in South Africa, which, in turn, made a profound contribution to the broader fight against apartheid.
One of Barayi’s most notable contributions was his integral involvement in the formation of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in 1985. COSATU rapidly emerged as a powerful force within the anti-apartheid movement, effectively uniting various trade unions in the collective struggle for political and economic freedom. Barayi’s unwavering dedication to the cause of workers’ rights and his visionary leadership in the labour movement earned him widespread respect and profound admiration.
Elijah Barayi’s enduring legacy continues to inspire countless individuals within the labour movement and far beyond. The Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre, named in his honour, proudly carries forward his profound vision by consistently providing vital education and training to empower workers and promote leadership within the mining sector and various other industries. His life and work remain a powerful testament to the transformative power of collective action and the unwavering fight for justice and equality.
At the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre, our dedication to the South African labour movement is reflected in every life we touch and every skill we impart. Here’s a snapshot of the tangible impact we’ve made, building on the profound vision of Elijah Barayi himself:
We have proudly delivered over 6,000 certified courses, directly empowering more than 500 graduates annually with vital skills and knowledge for the modern workplace.
Our comprehensive programs equip shop stewards and union members with essential leadership capabilities and practical expertise, particularly within the challenging mining sector, fostering effective advocacy.
Continuing Elijah Barayi's vision, we champion quality education and skills development, strengthening the working class and contributing to a more just and equitable society.
At the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre, our work is driven by a clear and unwavering commitment to empowering the working class. Our mission and vision serve as the fundamental pillars that guide every program we offer and every life we touch, ensuring we continue to build on Elijah Barayi's powerful legacy of justice and equality.
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
To Empower the working class to reach their full potential through Quality Education and Skills Development Programs.
At the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre, our core values—Excellence, Integrity, Honesty, Respect, Accountability, Quality, and Professionalism.

Excellence, Integrity, Honesty, Respect, Accountability, Quality

Equipping union members, especially in the vital mining sector, with critical knowledge.

We specialize in cultivating skilled shop stewards and visionary leaders for the labour movement.
At the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre, we don’t just educate; we inspire. We uphold the values of Excellence, Integrity, Honesty, Respect, Accountability, Quality, and Professionalism in every program we offer.
Contact us today !