Scholar drivers play a vital role in ensuring learners travel safely to and from school every day. On Saturday 30 August, the Discovery Safe Journey to School (DSJTS) programme celebrated top-performing drivers for Quarter 1 and Quarter 2. The ceremony took place at Pinelands Town Hall. This event highlighted how Discovery honours scholar drivers for safe learner transport.
The DSJTS initiative uses the DQ-Track system, which monitors driving behaviours such as acceleration, braking, cornering, and speeding. By analysing this data, the programme rewards those embodying safe learner transport practices while enhancing drivers’ awareness of their habits. Drivers also receive First Aid and Defensive Driving training. This ensures they are safer on the road and prepared to respond in emergencies.
While awards recognised both male and female drivers, the event also spotlighted women during Women’s Month. Their leadership and commitment in a traditionally male-dominated industry were celebrated as a model for others. Discovery honours scholar drivers breaking ground.
“These women are your peers, your fellow scholar drivers, and we want to honour them,” said programme lead Marcella Naidoo. “Not long ago, women were excluded from opportunities such as voting or leading projects. Today, they do that and so much more, at home, in schools, and in communities.”
DSJTS administrator Quinlyn Johnson added that the awards go beyond recognition. “Celebrating these drivers is about acknowledging the essential role they play in our communities. Women drivers, in particular, set a standard for safety and responsibility. They show young learners, especially girls, that leadership and care go hand-in-hand.”
By uplifting drivers through recognition, training, and technology, the DSJTS programme continues to foster a culture of accountability and safety. The celebration not only acknowledged top performers but also highlighted the ongoing dedication of all scholar drivers. These drivers keep learners safe daily, thereby honouring their contributions.
For related news, read about Women’s Month celebrations in Cape Town and our feature on learner transport safety initiatives.
