The Truancy Unit of the Ministry of Education and Culture is encouraging students to be careful when riding on motor scooters and bicycles.

Truancy Officer, Mr. McKenzie Baltimore in a recent statement wrote, “There are many students in the Virgin Islands who do not adhere to road safety rules while operating motor scooters and pedal bicycles. The Truancy Officers at the Ministry of Education and Culture are pleading with students to be more careful so as to prevent harm and serious injury to themselves and others.”

“Rules and regulations are not put in place to break you, they are put in place to guide and protect you, so think and choose wisely,” said Mr. Baltimore.

The truancy officer also noted that there have been recorded deaths of students and youth who have died as a result of motor scooter collisions and accidents.

To this end, Mr. Baltimore said, “We urge students to use wisdom and exercise great care and control. We love them and truly care for their safety and wellbeing.”

For students riding motor scooters, Mr. Baltimore advises that they obtain a valid license or permit, and ensure the scooter is licensed and insured. Both motor scooter and bicycle riders should wear helmets and pay close attention to other vehicular traffic.

Mr. Baltimore advises that pedestrians choose clear paths that are well lit and avoid vehicular traffic; use pedestrian crossings when and where necessary and avoid dark clothing at night.

The truancy officer also said that parents and guardians have a role to play in ensuring their children adhere to road safety rules, adding, “Please encourage your child or children to respect and obey authority at home as well as in the community.”

The Ministry of Education and Culture is committed to the welfare of youth and supports the Truancy Unit which is tasked with that mandate.  The Ministry recognises the work of the Truancy Unit in line with creating a “Culture of Excellence”.