Free transportation for 44,000 pupils

A TOTAL of 44,000 students will be provided with free transportation to and from their schools through 1,400 stops across Bahrain.

Education Ministry under-secretary for policies, strategies and performance Nawal Al Khater said, at a Press conference at the ministry’s headquarters in Isa Town yesterday, that 700 modern air-conditioned buses have been contracted for the job.

She added that special buses to transport students suffering from various disabilities have also been made arranged.

“We want students to reach and leave school safely and in the best way possible,” she said.

“For that we are providing modern air-conditioned buses to transport the students through 1,400 stops across the country.”

Meanwhile, Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma said that the new shorter government school day has been taken following extensive research.

“Primary school students will leave at 12.30pm, intermediate at 1.15pm and secondary at 1.45pm as we tackle traffic congestion on roads and also ensure students have more time with their families as the previous 2.15pm meant they reached home after 3pm,” he added.

“As we encourage punctuality in schools, we assure everyone there is no loss within the five-day school time, as classes would be managed in a different learning aspect.

“It is a comprehensive approach to how students’ day should be.”

In regard to children with mental disabilities, the minister said there was a joint committee with the Health Ministry for those accepted to join normal education and those dealt with through a different educational approach.

“This year, besides special buses for general disabilities, we have increased the number of schools accepting students suffering from mental disorders to 13.”

• The General Directorate of Traffic, in co-operation with the Education Ministry, held a training programme for community police personnel and school guards to enable them to regulate traffic near education zones and roads leading to schools. The training highlighted ways to regulate traffic near schools and dealing with students, including helping them to cross roads.

Source: https://www.gdnonline.com/Details/1289852/Free-transportation-for-44,000-pupils