To promote safety among motorists and road users, the Gauteng Department of Community Safety educated the community by discussing laws related to road use.

The department’s safety promotions in the western corridor recently visited Laerskool Westonaria Primary School to deliver an awareness programme about learner transport drivers. In collaboration with stakeholders such as Gauteng Traffic Police, South African Police, the Road Traffic Infringement Agency, and the Rand West City Local Municipality, the event was highly successful.

Spokesperson Peace Xesi explained that the aim of the event was to educate and raise awareness about road safety and the criminal elements within the learner transport industry.

During the presentation, concerns about overloading vehicles with learners were highlighted. The department emphasised that drinking and driving are illegal, advising residents to prioritise the safety of all road users by avoiding such behaviour.

They stressed that many vehicles are not roadworthy, stating that vehicles used to transport learners should have documents proving their roadworthiness to ensure safety.

Furthermore, the department condemned smoking hubbly bubbly inside the transport, as it could harm the learners.

Another topic discussed was the issue of transport operators impregnating learners. The department identified this as a serious concern within learner transportation. They also noted the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) occurring in the industry.

It was also mentioned that traffic infringements have become common in the sector. The department advised all operators to adhere strictly to the rules of the road at all times.