The Midrand Learner Transport Association will embark on an awareness campaign following a minibus accident involving Noordwyk primary and secondary schoolchildren on 13 September.
Several children sustained minor injuries after the minibus they were travelling in collided with two cars on 9th Road in Noordwyk, Midrand.
According to the association, the 16-seater minibus carrying the children was allegedly driving at a high speed when it lost control and veered into oncoming traffic.
The spokesperson for the Metro police Edna Mamonyane confirmed the incident. “The driver was allegedly driving into the oncoming traffic when the accident took place.
She added, “He fled the scene immediately after it happened.”
The deputy principal of Noordwyk Primary School, Sophie Phaahle, said seven of their eight learners who were involved in the accident were admitted to hospital with minor injuries. “Paramedics attended to them on the scene and transported them to hospital for treatment. One learner escaped unharmed.”
The principal of Noordwyk Secondary School, Alex Tau, said one of the eight learners from his school sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital. “The other seven were also taken to hospital for examination,” he added. “We urge parents to check whether the transport they are hiring for their children is registered with the association. That helps in identifying the driver, ensuring that the vehicle is roadworthy and drivers are adhering to the code and conduct of the association.”
The secretary of the association, Simon Masoeu, confirmed that the minibus was not registered with them. He added that they were planning an awareness campaign to educate parents on using reliable school transport for the safety of their children.
“We approached the owner of the minibus about four months ago to come register and comply with the criteria but he never availed himself,” said Masoeu.
“He was supposed to be screened, registered and given a sticker for identification purposes. We always work closely with schools and law enforcement agencies to ensure that incidences like these don’t take place.”
Ward 112 councillor Madeleine Hicklin said as part of the City of Joburg’s service delivery project, Diphetogo (real change), the City had allocated in excess of R10 million to specifically address the tarring of the gravel road (9th Avenue) leading to Noordwyk Primary School. “The tarring of the road will assist in making the area safer for all roads users, including young learners attending the school,” she added.
Hicklin said it was saddening that this incident had occurred following years of fighting with the previous administration and before upgrades to the road could be undertaken.
“I will continue to liaise with the City in ensuring that the matter is addressed so that our residents can live in a safer environment.”
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