In 2020, the Road Safety Partnership South Africa introduced the “Safe to School, Safe to Home” Scholar Transport Programme, a project focused on improving the safety of school transport in the eThekwini area. Supported by Toyota South Africa Motors (Pty) Ltd and key collaborators such as Netstar, the initiative aimed to tackle the high rate of road accidents involving schoolchildren. A primary focus of the programme was educating school transport drivers on road safety and compliance with regulations, ensuring safer travel for learners.
Driving Safety Forward: Netstar’s Four-Year Role in Scholar Transport Transformation
Incorporation of Advanced Telematics
In 2021, Netstar, a leader in vehicle tracking and fleet management solutions, significantly bolstered the programme by equipping scholar transport vehicles with telematics technology valued at over R200,000. This system enabled real-time monitoring of driver behaviors, such as speeding and sudden acceleration or braking. The initiative sought to enhance safety for schoolchildren while promoting responsible driving practices. Reaching around 120 taxi drivers and 10,000 learners, the programme made considerable progress in minimizing accidents.
Broadening Impact and Driver Training
In 2022, the programme expanded its reach and resources. The eThekwini Transport Authority collaborated with the Global Road Safety Partnership, Toyota South Africa, and Netstar to provide extensive training for school transport drivers. This included sessions on fire safety, vehicle upkeep, and tailored first aid training designed for scholar transport scenarios. As more drivers adopted safe and compliant practices, the safety of young learners improved significantly.
Strengthening Accountability Through Monitoring
By 2023, the programme’s third phase introduced stricter accountability measures. The eThekwini Transport Authority implemented advanced tracking systems to monitor and evaluate driver behavior. Drivers received performance scores based on any violations recorded during their trips, promoting a culture of responsibility and safety. This phase emphasized the importance of adhering to safety protocols and established a higher standard for scholar transport services.
Celebrating Success: Jerusha Gopal’s Inspiring Achievement
In October 2024, during Transport Month, the programme celebrated its milestones by recognizing outstanding contributors. Scholar transport operator Jerusha Gopal was honored with a new Toyota Quantum for her impeccable safety record, having zero driving infractions while transporting learners. At the award ceremony at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Gopal expressed her appreciation:
“This is a dream come true. I am committed to continuing to provide safe and dependable transportation for schoolchildren in this new and comfortable vehicle.”
Netstar’s Group Managing Director, Grant Fraser, highlighted the programme’s success, saying:
“The Safe to School, Safe to Home initiative demonstrates our dedication to leveraging technology for the safety of children. Collaborating with exceptional drivers like Jerusha enables us to make meaningful progress in creating safer roads for future generations.”
Ongoing Commitment to Safer Roads
Through collaboration with the eThekwini Transport Authority, Toyota South Africa, and other partners, Netstar continues to lead efforts toward safer transportation for young learners. By combining innovative technology with driver education, the programme remains a critical component in fostering a safer environment for the next generation.
Learn more about how Netstar’s vehicle tracking solutions are transforming scholar transport at [Netstar’s website](https://www.netstar.co.za).
