Ekangala police officers are taking proactive steps to protect young pedestrians through an innovative road safety education programme. With over 10 million South African schoolchildren walking to school daily, this initiative aims to equip the next generation with essential safety skills.

Tshwane District Police spokesperson, Captain Johan van Dyk, stated that the interactive sessions were designed to educate children on the fundamentals of road safety. He emphasised that by equipping young learners with essential skills, such as understanding road signs, using pedestrian crossings correctly, and identifying potential hazards, the initiative aimed to reduce accidents and promote safer daily commutes.

Van Dyk further highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of road safety awareness from an early age, ensuring that children develop responsible habits that can protect them throughout their lives.

The sessions covered key road safety practices, including using pedestrian crossings and traffic lights, looking left, right, and left again before crossing, identifying potential hazards like speeding vehicles and distracted drivers, and understanding road signs and markings.

Van Dyk emphasised that the initiative showcased the power of collaboration in creating a safe and engaging learning experience for children.

“This initiative highlighted the power of collaboration in fostering a safe and engaging learning experience for children. Empowering young pedestrians with road safety knowledge is a vital investment in building a safer community for the future,” he said.

The success of the Safety Month campaign was made possible through a strong partnership with the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and Ekangala Traffic Wardens, who played a vital role in promoting road safety awareness and ensuring an interactive learning experience for children.

According to Walking Safely to School, another road safety initiative launched in Tshwane, children account for more than one in ten road deaths in South Africa. Daily, more than 10 million schoolchildren across the country walk to and from school, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced road safety awareness.

Walking Safely to School highlighted several factors that increase the risk for children on their daily journeys, including inadequate road infrastructure, a lack of adult supervision, and the fact that walking is the primary mode of transport for most children.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za