In line with its statutory mandate, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority SLRSA has on Thursday 22 August 2024 certified a total of Nine (9) drivers of the Teaching Service Commission at the Authority’s headquarters Kissy Road Freetown.
The certification programme came as a result of a rigorous training process that lasted for two days. This Driver’s Refresher Training programme was done on both a theoretical and practical basis.
According to the Executive Director of SLRSA Rev. Smart K. Senesie, SLRSA as an institution has the mandate to undertake the development of the man power needed to service the transport industry including the training and retraining needs of transport personnel both in the private and public sector. He commended the TSC for taking such a bold step in bringing their drivers for training and therefore encouraged the drivers to put into practice what they have learned and go out to make the change so other drivers may copy from them. Rev. Senesie implored all Ministries, Departments and Agencies to send their drivers for such refreshers training to enhance their capabilities and safety on the road.
The Deputy Executive Director of SLRSA Mr. James B. Bio cautioned the newly trained drivers to note that one mistake while driving can cause a lot of damage to lives and properties. He mentioned the innovation of new vehicles every year, so the training is key, and refresher training would help drivers understand new technologies and innovations embedded in modern vehicles.
The Director of Transport Mr. Arthur Brima whose department is in charge of the training and retraining of drivers emphasize the need as to why drivers needs to be trained often so they may be fully abreast with the does and don’ts of the road. He also encouraged them to be agent of change after being certified as trained drivers, especially not over speeding on the road, which has been one of the major causes of road accidents, especially approaching rural areas.
The Director of Safety and Enforcement, Mr. Augustine Keitongi spoke on the traffic offences drivers often commit and cautioned the newly trained drivers to be very mindful of these traffic rules and regulations. He emphasized the need for them to pay attention to road signs. According to the Director of Safety and Enforcement “no one is above the law whether you are a private or public sector driver”.
The certificates were presented to the participants by the Executive Director, the Deputy Executive Director, and the Director of Human Resource and Administration, Mr. Josie A. Scott-Manga.
The occasion was climaxed with a vote of thanks and appreciation by Mr. Mohamed Samura, who happens to be the Senior Driver at the TSC. He acknowledged the good work of the tutors. Mr. Samura promised that they would definitely be the change both institutions are expecting and make a difference in their driving ability.
Credit: SLRSA Communications and Outreach Unit.
