On Tuesday (November 16, 2021), the Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Judiciary, Mr Pius Bigirimana, opened a two-day training for Judiciary drivers with a call for respectful conduct. This, he said, means diligent care of the vehicles and respect for the their principals.
He went on to caution the drivers against reckless driving which is an offence and could warrant arrest. Mr Bigirimana added that drivers would be held personally liable for any damages or repair costs accruing from careless driving.
The training which took place at the Judicial Training Institute in Nakawa is the second training of this kind. It targeted68 drivers to the Judges of High Court Divisions, Registrars, Magistrates and heads of departments. The first training of this kind was held earlier this year in March.
The PS/SJ however expressed his interest in the drivers’ welfare saying this was one of reasons he advocated for the recent increment in allowances for non-Judicial Officers.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr Steven Masanza, the leader of drivers, thanked the PS/SJ for the invite and his interest in their well-being. He also appealed for the PS/SJ's support towards the drivers' SACCO which was recently started.
Mr Masanza also requested that for the upcoming trainings, at least 70 per cent of the curriculum should be dedicated to practical driving skills.
In response, the PS/SJ agreed that the practical session was necessary since it tests one's mental and physical abilities. He also committed to support the drivers' SACCO, which he referred to as a "brilliant initiative".
The two-day training curriculum included presentations on traffic and road safety, code of conduct and ethics, defensive driving and customer care. The training ended today with a practical session facilitated by the Ministry of Works and Transport.
In attendance was the Deputy Registrar Training, HW Gladys Nakibuule and the Senior Assistant Secretary, Ms Aidah Kemigisa.
The training was moderated by the Principal Assistant Secretary/Transport Officer, Mr Sulaiman Hirome.
Posted 16th, November 2021
