Free travel for schoolchildren in need of additional social support measures is being introduced in the cities and districts of the Vitebsk region on the initiative of the prosecutor's office

Free travel for schoolchildren in need of additional social support measures is being introduced in the cities and districts of the Vitebsk region on the initiative of the prosecutor's office. The issue of free travel for schoolchildren on urban public transport was initiated by the regional prosecutor's office to the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee last year.

This initiative found understanding and response from the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee. Previously, students were entitled to free travel only from home to school and back. The existing situation was analyzed, and it was found that many children attend additional classes. This includes sports training, attending hobby groups in arts and crafts, technical creativity, participation in events held at Palaces of Creativity, etc. For example, in a large family, parents who strive to occupy their children with useful activities have to spend a significant amount on travel. This problem is also relevant for single-parent and low-income families.

By the Resolution of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus of 16.02.2011 No. 202, the Law "On Local Government and Self-Government in the Republic of Belarus" also guides the adoption of additional support measures for underage students, and the Education Code defines transport provision for students as a social support measure.

In essence, an educational process is underway in schools, and children also study, engage in sports, and art in institutions of additional employment. Employment provides an important effect for society and families – effective prevention of crime, including juvenile delinquency, as well as family dysfunction. In 2017, crime in the region decreased by 5%, and juvenile delinquency by 27%.

The Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee instructed the local authorities to take measures for additional social support for student children. This instruction has been fulfilled, and a large volume of work has been done by the authorities and education bodies. Now, many educational institutions have special commissions where parents can apply, if there are grounds (large families, low-income, single-parent families).

Vitebsk

The regional Council of Deputies has also adopted a decision granting the right to free travel based on relevant documents.

In Polotsk, Orsha, Chashniki, and Lepel districts, the Councils of Deputies have also adopted corresponding decisions. In Tolochin, Braslav, and Dubrovno, travel passes are issued to children. This work is ongoing in the districts of the region.

Senior Assistant Prosecutor of the Region
for Supervision of Legislation Enforcement
on Minors and Youth Anton Volkov.