Mayor hails Walking Bus scholar support
MAYOR Dan Plato hosted approximately 1700 members of the Backto-School Walking Bus initiative on Saturday at the Cape Town Civic Centre.
The event is held annually before the start of the academic year to wish learners well for the year ahead and to emphasise the need for community members to work together to ensure the safety of children.
“In May 2016, when I was MEC for Community Safety, we launched this important initiative. We saw the positive impact of this project and formulated plans to move it to the City to continue the good work in helping to keep our children safe,” said Plato.
He said the Walking Bus started as a voluntary service and safety initiative and has grown immensely. The Walking Bus is now operational in 56 areas in the metro.
The 1700 members referred to as the Walking Bus accompany learners from their area to and from school each morning and afternoon.
At the event, members received new bibs and other equipment needed to carry out their duties. Members who have also completed security and firstaid training received their certificates.
“The success of the Walking Bus has been the dedication and commitment of our members to ensure the safety of our children.
“This simple act of walking with learners helps get them to school safely and affords them the opportunity to receive an education. This is the most meaningful way of protecting these future leaders who could become doctors, lawyers, artists, musicians and sportspersons.”
Plato said the campaign had encouraged and seen thousands of parents volunteer since October. The City through the EPWP programme will pay members a stipend.
The act of walking with learners helps get them to school safely Dan Plato CAPE TOWN MAYOR