New regulations for driving schools launched
The KZN Department of Transport launched a framework that will regulate driving schools more closely.
THE KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport officially launched the very first regulatory framework for the driving schools’ industry at an event held in Pinetown last week.
Both the department and the industry task team jointly signed the framework at the Pinetown Road Traffic Inspectorate and hopes it will help regulate the industry with a view to strengthen governance, rid out fraud and corruption in testing centres and produce responsible, road safety conscious drivers.
This milestone is a part of the effort by government to formalise the existence of driving schools to develop clear operating standards.
It’s a first for driving schools to operate under a regulated framework that is meant to eliminate all the corrupt elements within the industry.
In his address to stakeholders, Department of Transport’s head, Sibusiso Gumbi, said the regulatory framework will help formalise the driving schools industry and advance compliance with road traffic rules and road safety.
“With this regulatory framework formalised, relations between government and driving schools will create room for the production of top of the range drivers,” he said.
The two year consultation process has culminated into the framework which will guide, regulate and standardise driving school operations in the province.
Gumbi emphasised the need for this collaboration to be adhered to so as to prevent any corruption and illegal operators within the industry.
He also expressed his appreciation to the stipulations in this agreement which has a training manual for instructors to produce better drivers.
Gumbi’s sentiments were echoed by Jeff Nkosi, representing the KZN driving schools, who also expressed his jubilation on the formation of this framework.
He commended government for initiating this formation and indicated that it will assist in curbing illegal operators who taint this industry by their illegal means. He also urged driving schools operators to support and adhere to all the stipulations of this framework.
