Motsumi said one of the main challenges for the department is learners who are removed from schools that are close to their area, as they are being closed down. They are then moved to schools in rural areas or townships, which then requires the government to provide them with transport.  

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Klipgat Secondary School in Madibeng in the Bojanala District and Thule Primary School in the Ratlou District are some of the schools which were closed down by the Department of Labour after inspectors deemed the buildings unsafe for learners. After visiting, different schools earlier this year, Mostumi raised concerns over the infrastructure. Meanwhile, Motsumi said what is challenging about the issue of scholar transport is the fact that it is run by another department. As a result, she cannot do much about it.

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“The most difficult part about scholar transport is that the function is managed by another department. So, as the MEC for Education, I don’t have control over any shortages or complaints, for example, you can see the buses are unroadworthy. So, it’s something that exposes these learners to unnecessary accidents,” adds Motsumi.

Last year, OFM News reported on various scholar bus accidents which claimed many lives of learners, leaving others injured in the North West. Meanwhile, Motsumi says the provincial government is looking into addressing these challenges by first ensuring that learners attend schools in close proximity. She says that she is currently in conversation with other MECs and they will be taking the matter to the ministry. Motsumi said the department will also attend to issues of safety and infrastructure, among others, and ensure that they improve results in schools.

OFM News