By Sarah Kallay – 18 August 2019
The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Alhaji Alpha Osman Timbo, has joined the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Kabineh Kallon, to accelerate plans for the commencement of the operations of the school buses as part of the Free Quality Education package.
The meeting was held at the Minister of Transport’s office at Youyi Building 7th floor on Wednesday 14th August 2019. In attendance were the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Madam Melrose Kargbo and Permanent Secretary of the Transport Ministry.
The meeting was precipitated by Minister Timbo’s request for a first-hand briefing considering the set date for the reopening of schools for the 2019/2020 academic year, being the 2nd September, 2019.
Minister Kabineh outlined plans made in respect to allocation of bus or buses per district, routes to be used by buses, lay-bys serving as bus stops, sensitization campaign for both parents and kids, monitoring and feedback mechanisms, recruitment and training of drivers and mechanics and more.
Minister Timbo commended the Ministry of Transport and Aviation for progress made so far on plans for the operation of the school buses and advised that these plans be made public as soon as possible, in fulfilment of the President’s statements to the public.
He outlined that plans have been put in motion for the distribution of school learning materials in time for the reopening of schools, to ensure a smooth learning experience for students and less hassle for teachers and parents.
Madam Melrose Kargbo, representing the local councils, suggested for the inclusion of several sectors in the monitoring team to be established, to ensure care and public confidence, whilst dissuading misuse and monopolization by an individual or entity.
