THE Department of Transport, Road Safety Division, recently partnered with Benjamin Pine Primary School in a campaign to improve road safety.

On Wednesday morning, 15 learners were formally introduced as ambassadors and initiated into the programme during the official launch at the school.

Representative from the Department of Transport (DoT), Sindi Zuma, said the initiative focuses on awareness, education, and empowerment as road safety begins with informed and engaged citizens, regardless of age.

Selected as leaders

“These learners were selected to take on leadership roles among their peers, promoting safe practices such as using pedestrian crossings, obeying traffic signals, and remaining alert near roads.”

As part of the ceremony, each ambassador received a colourful bib so that they can be visible when taking on their responsibility and a diary to write notes.

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On the day of the launch, the 15 learners stood before their educators and law enforcement officials while taking the pledge.

The group is led by departmental head Thokozani Msomi who also took the pledge.

They all committed to upholding road safety principles and serving as role models within their school and community.

The launch included practical education sessions led by metro police officers.

The learners had fun with sessions covering essential topics such as pedestrian safety which was taught to them with songs and dance.

The officials present on the day said they hope the campaign extends its reach beyond the school gates.

“By empowering learners as ambassadors, the initiative aimed to influence families and neighborhoods. Children often act as powerful messengers, and their enthusiasm can inspire safer habits at home and in the community.”

School principal, Sandi Brown, applauded the initiative, saying they were happy to be part of the campaign after being approached by the DoT.

“Mrs Msomi chose children from Grade Five and Six as this is an ongoing campaign. Road safety is an ongoing issue and something needs to be done to prevent the increasing number of accidents on our roads.”
Brown added that each term the ambassadors will have a different project.

“It is always a great idea to educate children at a young age so that they can grow up practising that habit and grow up to be responsible adults.”

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