Gauteng Education address scholar transport disruptions

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has acknowledged challenges affecting the province’s Scholar Transport Programme, which have led to some service providers temporarily halting operations and disrupting access to schooling for learners.

The department confirmed that the suspension of services on Monday, February 2, contributed to low attendance at certain schools across the province.

According to a statement released by the GDE on February 3, engagements with scholar transport service providers are ongoing to address outstanding payments.

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The department reiterated its commitment to settling all valid and outstanding invoices, in line with available financial processes.

The department appealed to service providers to ensure the continuous and uninterrupted transportation of learners while payment processes are being finalised.

While efforts to resolve the matter continue, schools have been advised to implement appropriate academic recovery measures to minimise the impact on teaching and learning.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said learner safety, access and well-being remain the department’s top priorities.

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“Indeed, safety, access and well-being of learners remain a priority. We will continue to engage all affected stakeholders to resolve the impasse, and we are confident that these engagements and commitments will enable operators to resume services,” said Chiloane.

He added that the department remains committed to collaboration and constructive engagement with stakeholders across the education sector.

“We encourage all our stakeholders to always engage with us on issues they face within the sector so that they can be resolved timeously,” he said.