Provincial learner transport services are expected to resume on Wednesday after the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) reached a concession with the South African National Small Bus Operators Council.
On Tuesday, nearly 22,000 learners across the province were affected on the first day of the last term when the operator withdrew its services.
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The council went on strike, saying they have been locked into contracts with the department that make no provision for fuel-related increases, despite diesel rising to R33 a litre.
The WCED said the South African National Small Bus Operators Council has agreed to resume learner transport services following a meeting with its members.
The department said the decision will allow it to continue its internal processes to resolve the dispute over fuel costs and contract payments.
Education MEC Jaco Londt said he expects operators to honour their commitment to resume services while discussions continue.
“Our learners are our number one priority, and we are committed to ensuring there are no further disruptions to schooling.”
Londt said his department will respond to the council on Friday, after its internal meeting on Wednesday, to discuss the cost implications of the fuel increase.
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Camray Clarke
www.ewn.co.za