ITA to Introduce Driver Education In Schools

The Island Traffic Authority (ITA) is seeking to collaborate with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information to introduce a driver education programme in high schools.

Speaking at the launch of the $10 million Ferry Police Station Renovation Project on Tuesday (December 14), Minister of Transport and Mining, Hon. Robert Montague said this is intended to ensure that the proper driving techniques “can be learned early” by students.

Mr. Montague further advised that the ITA and Transport Authority, both of which fall under his portfolio, have partnered to donate a driving simulator to St. Mary High School, which is slated to be handed over today (December 15).

The Minister made the announcement against the background of the over 444 road fatalities recorded for the year up to Tuesday (December 14), while outlining several initiatives and interventions designed to improve driving techniques and reduce loss of lives.

These, he informed, include the ITA’s introduction, last year, of a Road Code test for persons applying for a learner’s licence.

The Minister also said driving simulators are being introduced at the depots for learners to demonstrate their ability to control a vehicle before they do the yard test.

Mr. Montague advised that this facility is being piloted at the Swallowfield depot in Kingston.

He said the registration of driving instructors and the operators of institutions teaching people how to drive has commenced, adding that a partnership has been forged with HEART/NSTA Trust to facilitate training for these persons.