Abu Dhabi schools fully responsible for students' safety on all buses: ADEK

Schools in Abu Dhabi bear complete responsibility for the safety of students traveling on all school buses, according to a new mandate from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). This policy requires educational institutions to either manage their own transportation services or contract with approved external providers, ensuring a safe and reliable commute for all students.

The directive further stipulates that schools must offer necessary support and services to students with additional educational needs. This ensures that these students can effectively utilize bus services, promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the school transportation system. In situations where a school cannot provide transportation for specific students, it must obtain an official exemption from the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC).

All transportation operators and school bus staff are mandated to strictly follow the guidelines set forth by the ITC and adhere to the Abu Dhabi School Bus Traffic Guidelines. Compliance with all traffic laws and their subsequent updates is also required. ADEK emphasized that schools are ultimately accountable for ensuring student safety throughout their bus journeys, reinforcing the importance of stringent safety protocols and oversight.