Free learner’s licences still offered
The drive to equip Grade 11 learners from across Ekurhuleni with driving knowledge, which was implemented in 2015, is still up and running.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/28/2017/02/07srFreear_68768.jpg)
A partnership between the metro and the Gauteng Provincial Department of Education forms part of this project.
Oupa Bodibe, Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) spokesman, says they are proud to announce that 300 learners have benefited from the project since its inception.
“It must be noted that the project is targeting all Grade 11 learners from no-fee paying schools and not Grade 12s,” he says.
These scholars are set to receive their learner’s licences, which will be valid for a period of two years, free of charge, at no cost to the schools.
The project is fully funded by the GDE.
Read: Free driving lessons for high school learners
“The aim of the project is to create a habit of complying to the rules of the road and to do away with irregularities in acquiring driver’s licences,” says Bodibe.
Agatha Mzondo (39) from Endicott says she wasn’t aware of the free learner’s licences.
“I have a child in Grade 11 who will definitely benefit from the programme,” she says.
Driver’s licence testing centres will offer professional services to the learners, such as handling applications, giving classes, and issuing learner’s licences.
There are Grade E Satellite Driver’s Licence Testing Centres available in Tsakane and Thokoza.
Read: Metro opens drive-through centres for car licence renewals
The operating hours of the centres are from 8am to 3pm during weekdays and they also accommodate learners on Saturdays from 8am until noon.
The centres are closed on the last Saturday of each month.
Schools interested in enlisting in the programme may contact Ronald Fillies on 011 999 0227 or email ronald.fillies@ekurhuleni.gov.za.