Diepsloot Ward councillor Julius Maake has called on community members to assist learners affected by the ongoing scholar transport strike in Gauteng. Many learners who rely on buses are now walking long distances to school, while others are missing classes.
Maake appealed to motorists travelling between Bambanani and Lions Park to offer learners safe lifts when possible, saying he has been helping transport learners himself in the mornings and afternoons.
The strike involves operators affiliated with the Gauteng Small Bus Operators Council, who allege they have not been paid by the provincial Department of Education since October last year. The Council says the strike will continue until payments are made.
Concerned parents say the situation is affecting learners’ progress, especially matric students preparing for exams. The Gauteng Department of Education says it is processing outstanding payments and has urged operators to return to work while the matter is being resolved.
COSAS and SAFTU have also called for a speedy resolution to prevent further disruption to learning.