Online Reporter
The Herald, 1 May 1981
THE significance of Workers Day is to celebrate the achievements of workers in Zimbabwean industries, the executive secretary of the Mass Media Trust, Mr Robert Mandebvu, said yesterday.
Addressing student Journalists at the Zimbabwe Institute of Mass Communication in Salisbury, he said the importance of the day this year was to mark the move towards industrial democracy in Zimbabwe.
He said the establishment of workers’ committees in industries was an important victory for the workers and ushered in an era in which the workers could make suggestions, not only for their pay and improved working conditions, but also for the benefit of management.
Mr Mandebvu said workers were the moving force of production in every society as well as the spearhead of social revolution and he hoped industrial owners would hold consultations with workers to inform them of their full intentions before introducing changes.
The reason why there were fewer industrial disputes in socialist countries, Mr Mandebvu explained, was because the workers were briefed on the objectives of management. Socialism meant the involvement of all the workers “which is the basis of all progress in society”.
He urged all workers to improve their own means of communication with management in order to better production, relations and safety in their working environment.
Lessons for today:
- Workers Day is celebrated every year on 1 May, it is a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of workers in various industries. It acknowledges their hard work and dedication.
The story underscores the importance of recognising workers’ contributions, fostering industrial democracy, and promoting effective communication and collaboration between workers and management.
- The move towards industrial democracy is significant. The establishment of workers’ committees allows workers to have a voice in their workplaces, making suggestions for pay, working conditions, and overall management. This fosters a more inclusive and collaborative work environment.
- Effective communication between workers and management is essential. By holding consultations and informing workers of management’s intentions, industrial disputes can be minimised, leading to a more harmonious work environment.
- The story highlights the benefits of socialism, where workers are actively involved in decision-making processes. This involvement is seen as the foundation for societal progress and stability.
- Encouraging workers to improve their means of communication with management can lead to better production, relations, and safety in the workplace. It emphasises the importance of a collaborative approach to enhance the working environment.
