Tikana-Gxotiwe believes that a proper review of 2 audit reports on the functioning of the scholar transport ahead of the 2022 school year this week is key to understanding challenges and improving the system.

The two audits were conducted independently by audit firm, Ernst and Young and another by the Auditor General respectively. Both reports found instances of over and under payments to operators. This was largely due to insufficient internal controls.

MEC Tikana-Gxotiwe said, “The implementation of the recommendations of the reports cannot and will not be delayed. That is how seriously we are taking them. We are engaging the Treasury for an impartial review and an unapologetic implementation of the recommendations. And if the Treasury, upon completing their review, feels a need for a thorough forensic investigation. We will only be happy to comply.”

Tikana-Gxotiwe says consequence management will be another way to deal with individuals found to be at fault for any wrong doing.