Carpool Matching Scheme Pilot as Transport Option to Address School Bus Shortage and Congestion for Pupils Living within Same Neighbourhood

Assoc Prof Terence Ho asked the Minister for Education given the shortage of school bus drivers and rising costs of school bus services, whether the Ministry will consider piloting an opt-in carpool matching scheme in primary schools to connect parents living in the same neighbourhood, with a view to providing an additional transport option for families, reducing school-gate congestion and shortening travelling time for pupils.

Mr Desmond Lee: Parents are encouraged to consider primary schools nearer to home and take into account the transport options available when choosing a school for their child.

Parents may make private arrangements with other families whom they know to carpool. The Ministry of Education has no plans to pilot a carpool matching scheme in primary schools.