Prioritising learner safety during scholar transport intervention in George
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku this morning visited a scholar transport safety operation at Thembalethu Primary School in George. The visit forms part of the Department’s pre-State of the Province Address outreach and follows community concerns about overloaded vehicles and unlicensed drivers transporting learners.
The operation combined enforcement with education. Provincial Traffic Services inspected vehicles transporting learners, while Road Safety Officers engaged with drivers and educators on safety and legal requirements. The Mobile Licensing and Permitting Unit was also on site to assist with licensing, permits and driver services. Issues identified included overloading, expired documentation and minor vehicle defects that need to be addressed to ensure full compliance.
Scholar transport operators play an important role in helping children get to school each day. In terms of the National Land Transport Act, operators must hold valid operating licences, and drivers must have a valid driver’s licence and Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
“Learner transport is a top priority for the Department. We value the service operators provide to families and communities, and we want to work with them to ensure it remains safe and compliant,” said Minister Sileku.
He emphasised that operations are conducted fairly and consistently. “This is not about targeting anyone, but about applying the same standards to everyone so that responsible operators are protected and learners are safe. Parents should feel confident that safety standards are being upheld.”
While the Department prioritises education and support, it will take action where necessary. Unsafe or overloaded vehicles may be removed from service, and fines or further steps may follow in serious cases.
Learner safety is a shared responsibility. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to:
- Confirm the operator has a valid operating licence.
- Ensure the driver has a valid driver’s licence and PDP.
- Check that the vehicle licence disc is valid and that it is not overloaded.
- Never allow children to travel in the back of a bakkie.
Safety concerns can be reported to the school principal or directly to the Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE).
“Through ongoing engagement and enforcement, we are working to ensure every journey to school is safe. Safe scholar transport is both a social responsibility and an economic necessity. It supports local transport businesses, protects jobs, and ensures children arrive at school safely and ready to learn,” added Minister Sileku.
Media Enquiries
Muneera Allie
Head of Communication
Western Cape Mobility Department
Tel: 021 483 9483
Email: Muneera.Allie@westerncape.gov.za