The Department of Education (DoE), in partnership with the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport, has finalised procedures for scholar transport.

There are 67 221 learners who will benefit from scholar transport this year. The 2026 academic year commenced for local learners Wednesday, January 14.

According to the DoE, a needs assessment, through consultation with schools and verification of learner numbers, was conducted.

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The DoE spokesperson, Gerald Sambo, said: “This is another key support measure to ensure that learners who live far from school are not disadvantaged by distance or unsafe routes. The approved routes have been advertised and assigned, and learners are being assigned transport according to the approved criteria.”

He said the department’s database links individual learners to their schools and transport routes, ensuring accountability and proper management.

“Safety standards, including vehicle capacity limits, are being strictly monitored by our sister department. During the first ten days of the school year, learner information will be continuously verified to ensure accuracy and compliance.”

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Sambo said they note that the persisting rainfall might have damaged some road infrastructure. In this regard, school governing bodies are urged to proactively communicate with the DoE to ensure that learners are not put at risk.

Sambo said the DoE urges parents to register their children at schools within their residential areas to prevent situations in which learners are transported past nearby schools, which can pose long-term risks.