Johannesburg – Subsidised scholar transport service providers in Gauteng have refused a request from the provincial Education Department to finish their strike and resume operations.
Gauteng Scholar Transport Dispute
The department urged service providers to return to transporting pupils during a meeting on Thursday, while officials continue to “work on” resolving the issue. Although, operators state they have not received payments for over three months.
Sifiso Cele, spokesperson for the Gauteng Small Bus Operators Council (GASBOC), said, “It is unreasonable to make that request when you don’t have diesel and money for other operational costs.”
The strike, which began Monday, has left thousands of learners across the province without transportation. Bongani Ramontja, chairperson of the taxi organisation Soil of Africa, stated, “The outcome was not unforeseeable,” adding, “It is the direct and predictable result of poor financial planning. Children cannot be used as collateral damage in such situations.”
Ramontja likewise noted that parents are facing economic hardship and are being forced to make difficult choices, while their children’s education is disrupted.
Steve Mabona, Education spokesperson, said the department is actively working to resolve outstanding payments and appealed to operators to continue providing transportation while the matter is addressed.
A possible next step could involve further negotiations between the department and service providers to reach a payment agreement. It is also likely that the department will explore interim solutions to ensure pupils can continue attending school. The situation could continue to disrupt education if a resolution is not reached quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the scholar transport strike begin?
The strike began on Monday.
What is the primary reason for the strike?
The primary reason for the strike is that service providers have not been paid for over three months.
What did the Gauteng Small Bus Operators Council (GASBOC) say?
GASBOC spokesperson Sifiso Cele said it is “unreasonable to make that request when you don’t have diesel and money for other operational costs.”
How might ongoing disruptions to scholar transport impact the broader Gauteng community?
