THE ABC OF CONTRACTS
Unpacking the
employment contract by Mihlali Ncukana
AN EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT is an agreement between an employee and employer. It is a useful way to clarify various aspects of the post including one’s responsibilities and benefits. In this way, confusion or misinterpretation can be avoided. Let us examine the elements of a work contract.
Nature of a contract This defines if the contract is fulltime, part-time or a fixed term with a starting and an end date. With the latter, there is no obligation of renewal or permanent appointment.
Remuneration and working hours
(per week or month) are specified for fulltime and part-time workers. The benefits could include medical insurance, provident fund, travel, and other perks.
Leave The contract will stipulate the types of leave applicable, when the leave could be taken, if leave could be accrued and if leave will be paid out upon termination of employment.
t of c a r t n Co yment Emplo
The monthly or bi-weekly salary, benefits and allowances before deductions (as applicable), and working hours
UWC CAREER UPDATE 2020 | 43
