Police to closely work with the Bus Operators to ensure students are protected when travelling in school buses

In an effort to ensure the safety and welfare of all students, the Ministry of Education, Police, the Fiji Bus Operators Association and LTA have met to address various issues that continue to affect students and parents around the country.

Some of the discussions included a coordinated effort between authorities to ensure children are safely transported to school and back home.

Police will now closely work with the bus operators to ensure students are protected when travelling in school buses and to ensure student safety, Police will conduct random inspections of school buses.

In a statement the government says a number of cases have been reported where students are found to be seated on the edge of the window or door steps.

Education Minister Rosy Akbar says they will alert Heads of Schools to restrict student movement during school hours and approval will only be granted if a parent and/or guardian picks the child from school.

Akbar has also urged the bus operators to improve their service delivery in relation to timely school drop offs and pickups especially for Primary Schools.

She says younger students are at a vulnerable age and usually rely on specific timetables adding that any disruption to the bus schedule creates fear and uncertainty.

Akbar also thanked the bus operators for being considerate and for accommodating students during difficult times.

Police will also work with the Divisional Education Officers and Heads of Schools to ensure students are in school.

If a student is absent from school for a prolonged period without reason, the Heads of Schools will work with the nearest Station Officer to make home visitations.

The Ministry says they will continue to work with relevant authorities in ensuring children are well protected and committed to achieving academic excellence adding the safety and welfare of all children are important to the Ministry and Fiji.

The Ministry is also urging the public to contact the National Police Command and Control Centre on 990 5296 should they find any student loitering in town during school hours.