EDITORIAL :Prepare Dar commuters ahead of Dart lauch

A total of 138 special buses have already been imported, signifying that the much-awaited Dar es Salaam Rapid Transit (Dart) commuter system is about to kick off. This is welcome news as it indicates a massive reduction of transport woes Dar commuters had been facing.

But, as we congratulate those who were involved in the impressive project, we also consider it apt to remind them that much needs to be done to make the project a sustainable. There is a need for relevant authorities to educate the people on the proper use of the infrastructure.

This is important, for we are already noting with concern that many road users don’t respect traffic signs, a conduct that is likely to create problems when the projects becomes fully operational in due course.

For instance, there are many motorists, cyclists and pedestrians who don’t seem to understand how to react to changes in the traffic lights.

Since indications are that the Dart commuter system will be in full operation soon, the time for educating the public on the proper use of the long awaited infrastructure is now.

It would be wrong to wait until the project goes full swing for the relevant authorities to start educating road users on the “dos” and “don’ts” with regard to the utilisation of this commuter system.

We need to understand that those who will mess up with the new system won’t be frustrating the Dart managers alone, instead, they will simply be turning back the clock of progress for Dar es Salaam people who have for years craved for a modern and comfortable commuter system.

Therefore, people should take keen interest on learning on how to use the Dart system properly for their own good and that of other road users. We all have to play our part in facilitating its operations and its sustenance.

DON’T STOP LEARNING, TEACHER!

Teachers remain key role models in almost all societies—be it the villages or in urban areas. It is no wonder, they are expected be more knowledgeable than virtually everybody around them. This applies even when it comes to the use of modern-day info-tech gadgets.

The call by Coast regional commissioner Evarist Ndikilo that teachers need to update their skills and become IT savvy is therefore very apt.

Teachers are the main drivers in our children’s knowledge acquisition. Students look up to teachers as persons who know everything and as such, they will seek their guidance even in the use of hi-tech gadgets.

So, it is crucial for teachers to be ahead of their time in catching up with developments taking place in today’s fast moving world.

This challenge may prove too daunting to teachers in their task of seeking knowledge passing it to our young.

So, the call is both timely and crucial as it challenges teachers to always strive to raise the bar and seek to know more so as to be ready to inform their students and other members of the society who may seek their help.