The Select Committee on Education, Sciences, and the Creative Industries discussed a draft policy to improve the scholar transport program. Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, highlighted inconsistencies in how the program is carried out nationwide, especially under budget constraints. They aim to transition 667,000 students from private to government-subsidized scholar transport. The Department of Transport is involved in provinces like the Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and Limpopo.
Committee members raised concerns about driver training, early childhood development’s impact on scholar transport, and taxi violence affecting transport in some regions. They sought more details on learners dropping out due to transport issues in the North West and various funding options amidst budget challenges.
Minister Gwarube explained the program’s funding through the equitable share, considering expanding its coverage, and discussing funding shortages with National Treasury. The Director-General, Mr. Mweli Matanzima, suggested a conditional grant model for scholar transport, despite opposition from provinces fearing loss of autonomy in spending decisions. He committed to updating the committee on the North West learners and the impact of transferring early childhood development to the Education department.
Chairperson, Mr. Makhi Feni, praised the transformation-focused briefing and supported findings on racism at Pretoria High School for Girls. He encouraged engagement on the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill for a progressive legislative framework, underlining inclusivity in the public submission process. The BELA Bill is seen as pivotal for advancing transformative goals with opportunities for public input.
