The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Departments of Education and Transport have formed a high level team of senior officials to fast-track the implementation of the learner transport policy in the province.
This joint team will be jointly led by the Head of Department for Education, Dr. Nkosinathi Sishi and Transport Head, Mr. Sbu Gumbi.
MEC for Education, Ms. Peggy Nkonyeni and MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mr. Willies Mchunu, made the announcement of the team at the memorial service of the five school children who died in a bakkie accident in Rietflei, Mooi River.
Both MECs used this occasion to clarify the government policy position on learner transport and measures prohibiting the use of illegal modes of transport from transporting learners.
“We have an existing policy in place to guard against learners being transported using improper transport. What we are doing now is to escalate the implementation of the policy and to address weaknesses in its implementation. This policy was developed after the province experienced a spate of fatal accidents involving learners last year.
It is there to complement existing law that prohibits the transportation of the public using improper transport. The task team will look at all the weaknesses in the policy and ensure proper monitoring on the ground," read the statement by both MECs.
This team will among others things investigate measures to fast-track the implementation of the Provincial Policy on Learner Transport for Public Schools, which was launched last year (2013).
The policy seeks to, among other things:
- Manage and oversee the implementation of an integrated learner transport services
- Ensure an effective management of learner transport system
- Provide a safe and secure transport environment for learners through cooperation and collaboration with law enforcement authorities.
The introduction of this policy was informed by a desire by government to address the imbalances of the past and to ensure that education is accessible to all learners in the province, regardless of the economic conditions prevailing in their families.
It falls within the context of National Transport Policy and Regulations for safety measures on Public and Independent Schools. The policy also highlights challenges facing learner transport, which includes the use of improper transport such as un-proclaimed light delivery vehicles, un-roadworthy vehicles and those over loading.
Media contacts:
Kwanele Ncalane
Cell: 072 803 1462 or 079699 5755
Email: Kwanele.ncalane@kzntransport.gov.za
Nathi Sukazi
Cell: 081 018 0518 or 082 565 0205
