MEC WESSELS MORWENG REMARKS AT THE SANSBOC ELECTIVE CONFERENCE
The MEC for North West Department for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng says the safety of the learners will not under any circumstances be compromised. MEC Morweng was addressing the Provincial elective conference of the South African National Small Bus Operators Council, (SANSBOC) held in Klerksdorp.
SANSBOC is a government-supported initiative aimed at formalizing and empowering small bus operators most of whom are in scholar transport. They were established by the National Department of Transport with an interim structure in 2009 and a formal structure and provincial councils officially launched in 2012. They exist to be a structured voice for micro bus operators.
“You provide an essential mobility that allows learners, especially those from disadvantaged communities, to access education. Your service ensures that they can reach school on time and safely, fulfilling a fundamental constitutional right. It is for this that we hope you understand where we come from when we are not comprising on ensuring that the right of learners’ education is not violated nor expediently conceded”, said MEC Morweng.
He emphasized that roadworthiness of the vehicles and its maintenance must be a priority for operators. “You conduct on the road directly impact a child’s safety and even their future behavioural pattern. Your drivers are the first role models learners encounter each morning. The way they conduct themselves on the road and how they interact with learners creates a lasting impression. A positive, professional attitude fosters a sense of security and respect and lifelong moral value”, said MEC Morweng.
SANSBOC Provincial Chairperson, Mr Final Kgodumo, complained on late payments of their invoices by the Department. However, the Department said at times it is as a result of irregular submission of invoices which impact on the processing as verification must be done.
This is to ensure that invoices reflect the work done and the payment is accurate. “We expect you to submit your invoices monthly as per the Service Level Agreement. We expect your drivers to adhere to all road safety regulations, ensuring your vehicles are well-maintained, and driving with the utmost care and caution at all times. We must be vigilant against reckless driving and be prepared that contravention of this, will be met with uncompromising law enforcement officers”, closed MEC Morweng.
The Chief Director for Transport Operations which manages scholar transport, Ms Mpho Rantona, said SANSBOC is an important structure which provides and essential service. She said what is impressive is that more and more women are participating is the transport sector.
“We are happy that there more women participating here which means there are more women who are scholar transport operators. We believe in partnership and will continually and continuously working on ensuring that we do not have a trust deficit with you as our stakeholder. It is for this that we must ensure that we have the regular conversation which we not only value but appreciate as well. You are more than just transport providers, you are the first and last point of contact for many learners everyday day, playing a pivotal role in their educational journey”, said Chief Director Mpho Rantona.
-ENDS-
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SAFETY AND TRANSPORT MANAGEMENT
