Bridgestone champions road safety education in Alex high schools
Bridgestone Southern Africa, in collaboration with Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and Wheel Well, rolls out road safety education programme targeting high school learners.
Bridgestone Southern Africa has partnered with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and child road safety NGO Wheel Well to roll out a road safety education programme in seven high schools across Gauteng.
This initiative aims to curb the alarming rate of road accidents in South Africa.
Founder of Wheel Well Peggie Mars emphasised that the initiative is a stand against preventable tragedies that have robbed many of their futures. “Road deaths remain one of the leading causes of death among young South Africans. By engaging with learners before harmful habits form, we’re giving them the tools and mindset to stay safe – whether as drivers or passengers.”
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The programme has already been carried out at Minerva Secondary School and East Bank High School in Alexandra, and is set to be carried out in Thembisa at the beginning of the new school term. It is aimed at Grade 10 and 11 learners and focuses on educating young people about the fundamentals of road and tyre safety, vehicle maintenance, and passenger responsibility.
Key Account manager at Bridgestone Fikile Masoga shared that road safety is not just the responsibility of the driver; the passengers and pedestrians play a role as well. “We want to instill a culture of awareness and accountability among the youth.”
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Zwelethu Mazibuko, a car crash survivor who now lives with a facial scar, speech impairment, epilepsy, and complications caused by a brain injury, shared his personal story, explaining how a drunk driver changed his life. Speaking about the long-term consequences of road accidents, he emphasised the importance of wearing seatbelts, avoiding drinking and driving, and being accountable for one’s actions on the road. His story left learners inspired.
“He’s been through so much, but he keeps going. That inspired me,” Grade 10 learner Sambulo Buthelezi shared. He also appreciated the practical tips shared during the day, such as checking that pedals, shock absorbers, and handbrakes are in working condition when buying a car.
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