What is happening?
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for coordinated government action to improve the safety of scholar transport in South Africa. This follows a tragic road accident in Vanderbijlpark that claimed the lives of pupils travelling to school earlier in the week.
Speaking at the Basic Education Sector Lekgotla on 21 January 2026, the President said the tragedy highlighted long-standing challenges with the current learner transport system.
Why it matters to you
If you are a parent, educator, or learner in South Africa — particularly in rural or township areas — the safety and reliability of scholar transport directly affects your daily life.
Unsafe or informal transport increases the risk of injury or death for pupils. The President’s remarks signal that national policy and funding decisions on school transport may soon shift, with potential implications for how learners travel to school across the country.
I am deeply devastated about the tragic fatal accident that happened in Vanderbijlpark this morning; claiming the lives of 13 learners.
We send our deepest condolences to the families; friends and the schooling communities of these children.
Kubuhlungu ukulahlekelwa… pic.twitter.com/y8HciumwNe
— Siviwe Gwarube (@Siviwe_G) January 19, 2026
What you need to know
Here are the key takeaways from President Ramaphosa’s address:
- Scholar transport is under review: Government will be engaging with various departments to improve safety standards and expand access to reliable transport options.
- Focus on rural and township areas: The President acknowledged progress in offering transport in these areas but admitted more needs to be done to reduce risks.
- Comparison to global standards: Ramaphosa noted that other countries use purpose-built school buses with trained drivers, unlike South Africa’s reliance on informal taxi systems for learner transport.
- Ministerial directive coming: The President will formally instruct Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and other relevant ministers to develop coordinated safety improvements.
- Tragedy as a turning point: The fatal incident has created national urgency. The President said: “We cannot let this tragedy pass. We need to act now and act together”.
What you should do next
If you are affected by unsafe scholar transport:
- Report transport issues: Raise concerns with your local school governing body or district education office.
- Check for approved transport: Ensure your child uses school transport registered with the provincial education department.
- Stay informed: Watch for official announcements from the Department of Basic Education regarding new policies or safety measures.
- Join local forums: Participate in community engagements or school meetings discussing learner safety.
Where to get help / official sources
- Department of Basic Education: https://www.education.gov.za
For official news, scholar transport policy updates, and contact details. - Provincial Education Departments: Check your provincial website for local scholar transport guidelines.
- Transport complaints (National):
National Public Transport Regulator: 012 748 7300
Email: info@dot.gov.za
