By Lerato Mailoane
Johannesburg - An official working at the Xavier Driver and Learner Testing Centre (DLTC) in Ormonde was on Tuesday arrested for fraudulently issuing a driver’s licence after the individual failed to pass the test.
The arrest formed part of a blitz by the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport at testing stations throughout Transport Month in October, reports the Gauteng Provincial Government.
Roads and Transport MEC Ismail Vadi, who attended the blitz, said the official allegedly passed the individual after the vehicle she was tested in rolled twice on the steep hill.
“We have since reversed the licence and the official has been taken into police custody and will be charged with fraud,” said Vadi.
As part of the department’s initiative to clamp down on fraud, Vadi said unannounced inspections will be conducted at all testing centres across the province.
Computerised learner’s license test
During the visit, the MEC introduced a new computerised learner's licence test, which has been introduced to curb fraud and corruption in the issuing of learner’s licences.
He hailed the new test as an exciting new service that will change how officials test learner drivers.
The computerised test replaces the existing manually written tests - which will result in reduced costs because books, pens, pencils, erasers and marking stencils are no longer needed.
It will results in significant time-saving, as the tests will be scored online for more accuracy. This will also eliminate the possible risk of examiners improperly influencing the results.
“The introduction of this new system has numerous benefits, as it will significantly cut unnecessary stationery expenses and free up staff to focus on more administrative functions, such as finalising bookings promptly. It will also reduce the long waiting periods for the tests,” he said.
The questions are answered online in a user-friendly and self-explanatory system. The examiner or invigilator will be on hand to fully explain each step to candidates so that they are not jeopardised by the new technology.
Vadi said so far, eight testing stations have had the system installed, including Mabopane, Kliptown, Randburg, Themba, Meyerton, Akasia and Xavier.
“Over a thousand questions are on the system, and no examiner knows the system. Previously the department would have 1 400 people write the test and all but a few would pass but with this new system, an average of 300 people pass at any given point.
“That is because no one can manipulate the system and if you are taking your chances, the system will catch you out,” he added.
Vadi said the 26 centres are managed by municipalities on an agency basis for the provincial government and there is a Service Level Agreement (SLA) between the provincial government and the municipalities.
He said the department was also rolling out an SMS system that will send confirmations and reminders once a booking has been made for a learner’s licence.
Upon the individual booking for a driving licence test, an SMS will be sent to the individual and a reminder will also be sent.
After passing the licence test, another SMS will be sent to the individual to collect the licence card. – SAnews.gov.za
