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Cape Town - We asked Wheels24 readers what they thought of Minister of Transport Dipuo Peters announcing a couple of road safety school projects earlier in January.
Peters said: "The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) is planning to implement the provision of driving simulators programme during the 2017/18 period in order to ensure that learner drivers are given the opportunity to develop and enhance their skills to become good and safe drivers.
READ: Finally! SA children could learn how to drive at school again
"Part of the long term initiative to establish and enhance road safety relates to the skilling of our drivers, particularly those who will be acquiring licenses for the first time. Our intended purpose is to work with the Department of Basic Education to include the driving lessons at high school as part of the curriculum.
Justice Project South Africa's chairman Howard Dembowsky says:"On the face of it, the idea is good, since it would introduce a formalised driver skills driver training regime into the education system and provided that those doing the teaching are properly qualified and skilled driving instructors, this can only be hailed as a positive step in the right direction. Read his full response below.
READ: Driver training at SA schools: 'A positive step' - JPSA
Do you think it's a good idea for children to learn how to drive at high school? Do you think it will help reduce fatalities/crashes on SA roads? Email us or reach us via Facebook and Twitter.
Wheels24 readers have mixed reviews.
Readers respond
Andries Hoffman: This is an absolute great idea, and will be a advantage for all. It will also eliminate the fact that drivers obtained their license in an unethical way.
MMolotsip: I think it's a great initiative and it will teach these kids about road safety at a younger age. Obtaining a drivers licence will increase their chance of finding employment for those who can't go to universities after matric.
Fahiem Dout: I will say yes, as to avoid future road fatalities, which cost the government a lot of emergency service responses.
Christine Davis: I think they should get their driving licence at the age of 16. That gives them two years to drive, while still at school and under their parents's supervision. Most get it at the age of 18, leave home and did not have enough practice time and therefor so many accidents.
Frans Prinsloo: A big yes! That will be a great idea, maybe we will get more responsible drivers on the road.
