Women working in the scholar transport industry were empowered on road safety, compliance and wellness during an awareness event hosted by the National Transport Council (NETCO) and the Ekurhuleni National Scholar Transport Association (ENSTA) on August 19.

The event, held as part of Women’s Month celebrations, was a collaboration between the two associations, CLASTA 45 and the Department of Community Safety.

NETCO represents scholar transport operators who transport schoolchildren and works to ensure that members comply with relevant guidelines and requirements.

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The associations said the event aimed to reassure women that the transport industry can provide meaningful opportunities while equipping them with information to operate safely and sustainably.

The programme is expected to benefit 200 women, with participants divided among the three associations. More empowerment events are planned for the future.

NETCO representative Kgabo Selolo said compliance and safety remain among the challenges facing the industry.

“We have many challenges ranging from safety and compliance. The awareness helps with compliance with law enforcement and traffic laws, as well as mental health,” Selolo said.

Participants were also educated about tyre safety, including tyre lifespan and the importance of keeping tyres in good condition. Financial lessons formed part of the empowerment programme.

“As associations, we condemn the discrimination of women and try by all means to see our women members excel and conquer,” Selolo said.

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He said the associations had also made progress in gaining recognition from government departments involved in the transport industry.

“We have managed to gain recognition from the state and its various departments involved in the transport industry. We have also, in collaboration with other associations, been involved in the processing, approval and issuing of operating licences, to mention a few,” he added.

Members participated actively throughout the event, asking questions about issues affecting the transport sector and engaging with representatives from the Department of Transport.

The associations said women continue to play an important role in scholar transport, using the industry to support their families and build livelihoods.

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NETCO currently has two female executives who are actively involved in the organisation, which, Selolo said, demonstrates the growing role of women in the scholar transport sector.

The event highlighted the importance of continuing education, support, and collaboration to ensure that women in the industry are equipped to operate safely, comply with regulations, and grow their businesses.