ABU DHABI // Private schools in the capital that do not ensure their buses are safe could lose their operating licences.
The Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) has sent a circular to all private schools underscoring their responsibility to protect pupils who use their buses to and from classes.
The requirements include ensuring there is no overcrowding and windows are in good order and closed at all times. Every school must also hire supervisors to monitor pupils on the bus.
"It is the responsibility of the schools to ensure that pupils are safe and secure during travels," said Yousif Al Sheryani, executive director of private schools and quality assurance at Adec.
"Safe pick-up areas and supervisors must be made available for pupils, whether travelling by school buses or on privately owned vehicles."
According to the private education laws drawn up by the Cabinet in 2008, any breach of security, safety and health conditions will result in cancellation of a school's licence.
An overhaul of the school transport system began in 2010 after several cases of negligence were recorded in the country.
In April 2008, Aatish Shabin, 3, died after being locked in a hot school bus for several hours. And four-year-old Aimann Zeeshanuddin died of heatstroke and dehydration when she was left in a school bus in 2009.
