UASA Media Release: 20 January 2026
Image source: www.timeslive.co.za
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of fourteen school children who died yesterday while travelling to school in the Vaal.
Witnesses say the crash happened on a narrow road near Vanderbijlpark. The driver was speeding and tried to overtake three vehicles and a truck just before the accident. The scholar transport driver survived and police have opened 14 counts of culpable homicide.
Tragic accidents like this, and others before it, should not be ignored. The government needs to put stronger road safety measures and clear rules in place for scholar transport drivers.
On the same day, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) released a report stating that the conditions of scholar transport in the Northwest province violate basic human rights. Statistics South Africa also reported that between 2018 and 2022, more than 800 school children died in scholar transport-related accidents.
Authorities say that human error is a major cause of road accidents in scholar transport. Drivers often overload vehicles with children, speed, and ignore road rules. UASA urges all scholar transport operators to remember the children they are responsible for each day. Reckless driving or the use of vehicles that are not roadworthy reveals serious problems with regulation and enforcement. It is better for children to arrive late than not arrive at all.
UASA offers its deepest condolences to the parents and families who lost their children in this tragedy. For those now arranging funerals for their loved ones, we know there is no comfort for such unbearable grief. May the little angels rest in peace.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.