One hundred of the 262 schools targeted for the rural school bus system this academic year, have started the pilot.

The programme, announced last year is intended to improve students’ attendance and punctuality, and provide a safe mode of transportation for students to school.

Schools have been partnering with local bus operators to transport students.

There are strict guidelines by which bus operators are expected to adhere.

Coordinator at the Education Ministry’s Safety and Security in Schools Unit, Richard Troupe, has high praises for the programme so far.

The pilot targets students of the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (Path).

According to Mr. Troupe, the one challenge facing the programme is inadequate numbers of disciplined bus operators.