The University of Cape Coast has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) to provide shuttle services for students on campus.
GAPTE is the operator of the Aayalolo bus Services which is a government agency under the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Local Government.
Speaking to ATL FMNEWS after the signing ceremony, the Chairperson for the Transport Committee of the University, Professor Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh said the partnership with GHAPTE arrangement is in fulfilment of the university’s desire to provide safe, efficient and reliable transportation system to students within the university community.
“In the past two years, we have had arrangements with some bus companies and during those times we observed some challenges but we are hoping for a better service this year. Thus, in our discussion with GHAPTE we made them aware that they cannot make the same mistakes that brought about challenges that we had in previous times”, she noted.
She also revealed that apart from GAPTE, there were two other companies who applied to provide transport service to the University.
However, the team that examined the document felt that they will give GAPTE a chance to also work.
Prof Edu-Buandoh further said that she hopes that students will cooperate with the company as they discharge their duty.
“One of the challenges we had in the previous years was students disrespecting the drivers and I think it should not be said of us and our students that we disrespect other people. Thus, I am encouraging our students to respect the company that is providing this service so that in subsequent years we can stand on good relationship with them and perhaps make it better than what we will even get this year”, she indicated.
The Head of Transport Unit at GAPTE, Charles Annan who signed the MoU on behalf of the transport agency assured students and the university community of better services.
“The buses are fitted with infotainment system such as video players. We also have USB ports that students can use to charge their phones during the period of travel. It is also very spacious to allow for social distancing which is very important in this COVID-19 period”, he stated.
He added that, “We will also ensure that we continue to monitor and review our operations and improve the service to the benefits of the student community”.
He revealed that along the line, a contactless card will be registered to students so it makes travelling seamless.Also according to him, they are currently starting with four buses but depending on the demand from students and the acceptability a lot more buses will be deployed to meet the demands.The buses will start operating today, Monday 8th February 2021.
Source: Kojo Dei/ATLFMNEWS
