Mpumalanga MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport, Mr Thulasizwe Thomo, has called on all scholar transport operators in the province to ensure their vehicles are fully roadworthy and legally compliant ahead of the reopening of schools next week.

With thousands of learners expected to return to classrooms following the festive recess, MEC Thomo stressed that learner safety must remain the top priority for everyone involved in scholar transport services.

He urged operators to take full responsibility by ensuring vehicles are mechanically sound, properly licensed and driven by qualified, sober and responsible drivers. “Learner safety cannot be compromised. Operators must ensure that every vehicle transporting children meets all legal and safety requirements,” said Thomo.

The MEC highlighted that vehicles used for scholar transport must undergo thorough inspections, including checks on brakes, tyres and steering systems, in accordance with the National Road Traffic Act and related regulations.

He further warned that the Transport Inspectorate will intensify compliance monitoring across Mpumalanga, with a specific focus on scholar transport vehicles. Operators found to be in violation of the law will face firm action, including fines, the impoundment of vehicles and possible suspension of operating permits.

“We will not hesitate to act against operators who put the lives of our children at risk. Learners deserve to be transported in safe and reliable vehicles every day,” he added.

The department also appealed to parents, school management teams and community members to report unsafe scholar transport vehicles to the relevant authorities to help safeguard learners as the new school term begins.