In a significant move to support education access and ease financial stress on families, the South African government has launched a new school transport initiative valued at R870 per child. This benefit, set to roll out between July and August 2025, is designed to ensure that every school-going child has safe, reliable transport regardless of their household income.
This initiative follows growing public demand for more inclusive education support, especially for learners in remote or under-resourced areas. By offering free transport to school, the government aims to remove one of the key obstacles to consistent school attendance.
What the R870 School Transport Benefit Offers
The R870 benefit is not a cash payout to families, but a fully subsidised transport service. It applies to learners attending both public and private institutions, provided they meet the basic requirements.
Key features of the benefit include:
- Free transportation to and from school
- Support for children across all provinces
- Accessibility for both urban and rural learners
- No cost to parents or guardians
The initiative is aimed at creating equal learning opportunities for children who might otherwise be forced to stay home due to transport issues. It also supports national efforts to improve school attendance and reduce dropout rates.
Who Qualifies and How to Apply
The program is open to all South African schoolchildren enrolled for the 2025 academic year. Eligibility will be determined based on school enrollment and distance from the educational institution. Priority may be given to learners in rural or underserved areas.
Steps to Apply:
- Check Eligibility
Confirm your child’s enrollment and ensure they attend a qualifying school. - Prepare Documents
You’ll need:- Proof of school registration
- Proof of residence
- Child’s ID or birth certificate
- Submit Application
Applications can be submitted online via the Department of Basic Education’s portal or at your local municipal office. - Receive Notification
Within 14 days, you will receive confirmation and transport schedule details via SMS or email.
Why This Matters for Families
This initiative goes beyond just transport it’s about investing in a child’s future. Many children in townships and rural areas face long, unsafe walks to school. For parents who cannot afford daily transport costs, the R870 program removes a huge burden.
Benefits for families include:
- Relief from daily taxi or bus expenses
- Better school attendance and academic performance
- Peace of mind knowing children are transported safely
- Greater community engagement around education
Safety and Accountability Measures
The Department of Transport has partnered with accredited service providers to ensure high standards of safety. Vehicles will be regularly inspected, and drivers will be vetted with strict background checks. Emergency support and GPS tracking are expected to be part of the rollout in many regions.
What’s Next for the Program?
Government officials have confirmed that this program will be monitored closely in its first few months. Based on its success, there’s potential for:
- Expanding the benefit to more learners
- Increasing the transport budget per child
- Adding after-school transport options
- Integrating with nutrition and textbook delivery services
Stay Informed and Involved
Parents are encouraged to stay updated by visiting their child’s school or local municipal office for program news. Community feedback forums and parent meetings will be scheduled in many districts to ensure the program adapts to the real needs of learners.
Together, this initiative marks a powerful step toward building an inclusive and accessible education system one where no child is left behind because of transport challenges.
For more updates, visit the official Department of Basic Education website: https://www.education.gov.za
