About Us

The Professional Educators’ Union (PEU) is one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected teacher unions.

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Empowering Educators Since 1906

PEU was born out of a need to unify and amplify the voices of educators in pursuit of equality, recognition and dignity within the teaching profession.

Over the decades, PEU has grown into a dynamic, member-focused organisation that advocates for labour rights, professional development and educational transformation while maintaining a non-partisan, democratic and inclusive ethos.

  • Professionalism
  • Loyalty
  • Commitment
  • Fairness
  • Transparency
  • Respect
  • Dignity
  • Integrity
  • Honesty
  • Good Governance
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Years

Since 1906, PEU has stood as a beacon of strength, unity and advocacy for teachers across all provinces.

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Presidents

PEU has been shaped by 23 dedicated presidents who guided the union through every era of educational and political transformation.

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PROVINCES

We operate across all nine provinces of South Africa, offering support, representation and development opportunities to educators.

Meet the Management Team

Dubula Mkhuseli

Dubula Mkhuseli

President
Mkhuseli Dubula is a seasoned educator and unionist with a BA(Ed) from the University of Transkei. His career spans roles as teacher, HOD and principal across KZN and Gauteng. He joined PEU leadership as KZN provincial chair and rose through various national roles before becoming President. He holds qualifications in labour law & others.
Boase LP

Boase LP

Vice President
Dr Boase serves as the head of the PEU’s Steering Committee, overseeing all standing committees within the union. He plays a pivotal role in conceptualising and implementing strategic development initiatives. He represents PEU on both national and international platforms, engaging in high-level educational dialogue.
Madonsela J

Madonsela J

General Secretary
Jabu Madonsela is a seasoned educator who began his leadership journey as a deputy principal in 1998 & became a principal in 2002, serving in 4 high schools across Gauteng. He has held key leadership roles within PEU, including Provincial Secretary in Gauteng, Deputy General Secretary and as of 1 October 2024, the General Secretary.
MANAGEMENT TEAM

Our Legacy of Leadership

PEU’s history is defined by strong leadership, each president guiding the union through unique challenges, from apartheid-era restrictions to the modern complexities of education policy. Below is a timeline of our presidents and their eras of influence

S M Makgatho

Founding leader; laid the groundwork for unionisation among African educators.

Rev. F J Briscoe

Strengthened early organisational structures and promoted educator solidarity.

Rev. J E Reeves

Guided the union through World War I challenges with spiritual and moral leadership.

The Very Rev. W A Palmer

Advocated for improved teacher welfare and schooling conditions.

T P Mathabathe

Expanded PEU's presence and influence in regional educational matters.

M K Molepo

Championed educational equity and addressed curriculum reform.

S J J Lesolang

Led during WWII, focusing on teacher morale and employment stability.

J E M Malepa

Strengthened ties with schools and increased membership.

J M Lekgetha

Pushed for professional recognition and improved teacher salaries.

R L T Tshaka

Advocated for educator rights during a politically tense period.

A Maqubhela (Acting – 5 months)

Maintained organisational stability during leadership transition.

Z Mothopeng

Known for promoting academic excellence and political consciousness.

S P Kwakwa

Emphasised union expansion and teacher empowerment.

C A R Motsepe

Brought about a more structured governance model.

P R Ngwana

Advocated for rural education and better school infrastructure.

J S M Khumalo

Prioritised youth education and curriculum enrichment.

D M L Mphahlele

Led during a turbulent political era with calls for teacher unity.

L M Taunyane

Longest-serving president; modernised PEU and led through democracy transition.

J K Dikobo

Focused on policy advocacy and stronger union-government dialogue.

M M Makgoba

Promoted educator development programmes and digital learning readiness.

M J Kutumela

Advanced transformation initiatives and strategic partnerships.

J Motona

Prioritised member benefits and union accessibility.

M Dubula

Current leader; driving digital transformation, youth inclusion and national policy impact.

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