SADTU skeptical of govt's scholar transport safety commitment

The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) has expressed skepticism at government's commitment to regulate scholar transport.

This follows Monday's deadly crash that claimed the lives of 14 pupils, leaving others injured. 

During a candlelight prayer on Thursday at the scene of the crash, SADTU's Confidence Masigo called on parents, government and society at large to unite and ensure the safety of children. 

She questioned government's seriousness in addressing the problem. 

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“Experts call for reforms like mandatory GPS tracking, I wonder whether that will happen, dedicated bus lanes and subsidies for safe vehicles. The government should enforce harsher penalties for those who break the rules of the road. Here in the Vaal roads are so bad and there is heavy traffic on the road nationally,” Masigo said.

She added that the Department of Social Development also needs to help with psychosocial support.

“SADTU calls on communities, transport operators and all sectors of society to prioritise the safety of all children to uphold their constitutional right to life, dignity, protection, everywhere.”