ADEC Begins 'Full Inspection' of School Transport

Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) has begun a series of inspections of school transport across the emirate. The announcement follows the death of a three year old girl last month who was locked in a school bus. The regulator said that the inspections will be conducted jointly with police traffic and patrols department.

Speaking to The National newspaper Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, director general of Adec, said ensuring children’s safety was a top priority and a shared responsibility among all government organisations, transport providers, community members and parents, as well as the pupils. She stressed the importance of educating workers involved in school transport about their responsibilities. But she said it was also crucial that children be taught how to stay safe.

Brig Hussein Al Harithi, director of the traffic and patrols department and chairman of the committee said schools must appoint qualified and trained supervisors to accompany pupils.

ADEC ordered the closure of the school that the deceased girl attended, Al Worood Academy Private School, by August next year.